Adios, Mike Mularkey
by Dave Choate on Jan 10, 2012 10:50 PM EST
in Falcons News
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PrintThe collective wish of Falcons fans across the globe has come true. Mike Mularkey is heading to tealer pastures.
Forgive me if this is rambling and directionless.The Jacksonville Jaguars made Mularkey their head coach, overlooking an embarrassing playoff performance in the process. No official word on what drew the team to MM at this point, but I'm guessing it was his tutelage of Matt Ryan and his dedication to the ground game. Given that the Jaguars have no wide receivers, a struggling rookie quarterback in Blaine Gabbert and arguably the NFL's finest running back in Maurice Jones-Drew, he really is a great fit.
But enough about the Jaguars. You're more concerned about the Atlanta Falcons, and without question, this is the best outcome for the team. They didn't have to fire Mularkey, but they still jettisoned the offensive coordinator who presided over arguably one of the most embarrassing playoff performance in the team's tortuous history. That failure was striking, yes, but it was also an indictment of what a Mularkey-led offense had become: Incapable of winning big games. The team can now truly evolve from its days of a ground-heavy focus and short passing game to something more dynamic, which they did only half-heartedly in 2011. That's the hope, anyways.
I had an entire post written about why the Falcons needed to can Mularkey, which I'll summarize here. He didn't get the best out of his players, his offense was becoming a dinosaur in today's NFL and with these Falcons and not getting rid of him would send an unacceptable message that coming up with zero offensive points in a critical game was okay. Give the team credit for having enough class to let Mularkey go get a good job instead of sabotaging him, and kudos to Mularkey for finding a head coaching gig.
Again, though, this is a welcome change. Mularkey's unwillingness to use guys down on the depth chart—perfectly capable and useful players like Harry Douglas, Jacquizz Rodgers and Kerry Meier, to name a few—was infuriating, as was his laughably inept play calling in do or die situations. He guided the Falcons capably through the 2008 transition period and did his job well enough for 10-13 games a season, but the post-season failures and the meltdowns in games against quality opponents told a story all of us were tired of hearing. With the talk from Arthur Blank down to the grounds crew focusing on creating an offense that can hang with the Packers and Saints of today's NFL, it was time.
Now the Falcons must hire an offensive coordinator who can use those weapons in new and creative ways and the players must learn a new system. Don't anticipate greatness right off the bat, but a fresh start is so, so welcome. It's a brave new world.
I wish Mike Mularkey well and I'm grateful for what he accomplished in Atlanta, but I can't say parting is such sweet sorrow. It's just a relief.
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Don't care for the way Hue Jackson threw his players under the bus in Oakland.
Not to mention the Carson Palmer trade. 13 TD’s 16 ints Hue called it the greatest trade in history…Not!!! Potential virus.
Several Oakland players said he did not lose their respect
Also, you have to admire a man with the guts to pull of a bold trade like that to try to send a perennial bad team to the playoffs.
You have to cut Hue a little slack
In 23 months he went from OC to Head Coach to HC/GM. You cannot find a coach who went through more in their first year than Hue Jackson. As OC there is no worry about a trade he makes or being the focal point of press conferences where he did throw players under the bus. He would be a great fit as OC.
"I don't mean to sound bitter, cold or cruel, but I am, so that's how it comes out" -RIP Bill Hicks
by Johnny Carcinogen on Jan 11, 2012 1:51 AM EST up reply actions
WOOOOOT!!!!
Thank friggin Jebus; SOOOOOOOO glad!!
Addition by Subtraction
Now we need to start weeding out the roster and the transition begins.
Absolutely.
Agreed, though still take shots downfield. With our current O-line, quick passes are going to be a necessity.
by HotLunch4You on Jan 10, 2012 11:10 PM EST up reply actions
I'm not sure Ryan's got the timing.
By my count, he threw the ball on time only 3 times all season. In a WCO, it’s got to be 1,2,3, fire.
Perilously close to a 2007 style depression.
by VaderX5 on Jan 10, 2012 11:47 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Yes
but then we had a QB who was ill-suited for it.
'There are two pains in life. There is the pain of discipline and the pain of disappointment. If you can handle the pain of discipline, then you'll never have to deal with the pain of disappointment,'- Nick Saban
i still don't like it.
We need to keep up with Drew Brees and Aaron Rodgers
by brotherbrown on Jan 11, 2012 1:17 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah, those 49er teams
with Rice and Taylor always struggled to put points up. In no way am I saying that we have a Jerry Rice, but we have two pretty damn good receivers and a stud TE.
'There are two pains in life. There is the pain of discipline and the pain of disappointment. If you can handle the pain of discipline, then you'll never have to deal with the pain of disappointment,'- Nick Saban
2 coordinators in 2 days.
Almost makes up for 2 points in 4 quarters.
Honestly, I think I feel better about our future than I would have even if we had won the SB.
How does guy with 2 abismal playoff games in a row get a HC gig? That Week 17 TB game made MM a bunch of money.
Perilously close to a 2007 style depression.
by VaderX5 on Jan 10, 2012 11:04 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Yeah, what do Jags fans think right now?
How on earth do you possibly get excited about that hire?
by cheshire falcon on Jan 10, 2012 11:08 PM EST up reply actions
A guy who can't throw more than 30 feet downfield?
Perilously close to a 2007 style depression.
by VaderX5 on Jan 10, 2012 11:45 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
I read some posts in the Jacksonville paper about what they thought
2 to 1 in favor of the hire….LOL…poor poor Jacksonville
Wow. Ignorance is bliss.
Reminds of the Winston Churchill quote “the best argument against democracy is a 5 minute conversation with the average voter.”
Perilously close to a 2007 style depression.
by VaderX5 on Jan 11, 2012 12:02 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Wow. Ignorance is bliss.
Reminds of the Winston Churchill quote “the best argument against democracy is a 5 minute conversation with the average voter.”
Perilously close to a 2007 style depression.
by VaderX5 on Jan 11, 2012 12:02 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Double post
Double post
Perilously close to a 2007 style depression.
by VaderX5 on Jan 11, 2012 12:03 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
We heard you the first time
A word to the wise ain't necessary - it's the stupid ones that need the advice.
by FrozenFinger on Jan 11, 2012 12:04 AM EST up reply actions
Read those too
and on Big Cat Country (where Dave had a nice note) and most seem to think Gabbert is better than Ryan. Fools!
A word to the wise ain't necessary - it's the stupid ones that need the advice.
by FrozenFinger on Jan 11, 2012 12:03 AM EST up reply actions
Change is always exciting...
But I’m with you, they’ve got to be shaking their damn heads over this one.
I think
it was more, that want someone to groom Gabbert, and think about where we were 4 years ago, and MM has completely turned our expectations around to where we can COMPLAIN and BICKER and have right to do so! I wanted him gone just as much as everyone, but it’s a perfect fit, it’s just like we were 4 years ago. A decimated franchise, a young QB, a workhorse as a RB and a city that needs something!
*In Matt I Trust*
http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/9455/grimessig.jpg
by nj_falconfan on Jan 11, 2012 9:17 AM EST up reply actions
Exactly
As much as I hated the play calling this season and the inability to progress the offense after 4 years, Mularkey and Smith put together the perfect game plan to get a rookie QB up-to-speed in the NFL. And though the post-season games were a debacle, Mularkey was part of the team that helped turn this franchise around.
I’m not sad to see him go, but he was not the complete moron some make him out to be.
I agree
He’s part of the team that helped get us out of ineptitude to respectability. For that I thank him…ALOT. From no back to back winning seasons to 4 in a ROW with 3 playoff appearances. That’s HUGE!
However we have higher aspirations and I think the league has passed him by and we needed to move on. His offenses didn’t get it done against the better teams / defenses in the league though. He beat bad teams, but not good teams. That’s a problem trying to win in the playoffs.
The Falcons are a lot like the Saints in terms of coaches...
Except kind of in reverse. They have a coach who is very offensive minded and not so knowledgeable about defense… we have the exact opposite. It’s why Gregg Williams coming in for them was such a big deal and essentially turned the team from an 8-8 team with potential to a team that won the Superbowl the next year.
Since Smith is such a defensive guy, he needs someone who can take the offense and competently run it. Mularkey clearly wasn’t that guy. If we make the right hire here, it could have a pretty drastic impact like it did in New Orleans.
by cheshire falcon on Jan 10, 2012 11:07 PM EST reply actions
I wondered how Saints Fans felt about Sean Peyton from 2006-2008
Do they even remember the (boned-head call) they had against the Bucs in 2007 when Reggie Bush fumbled the ball on a double reverse flipping it deep in their own territory trying to ice the game.
They even made a comic of Sean Peyton the next day.
by brotherbrown on Jan 11, 2012 1:41 AM EST up reply actions
I don't think many Saint's fan can remember that far back
Most started cheering for the team after 09
Actually, thats BS
We all remember that Bush play against the Bucs. And most of us have been following the team from way before Payton and Katrina. Don’t paint with such a broad brush. Falcons sure picked up a lot a bandwagon fans after MS showed up, I do believe.
As for the original point, we loved SP even in 2006-08. Remember, ‘06 was one year removed from Katrina, and he took us to the NFCCG. Haven’t seen you guys there recently. And the two years following, it was obvious we were losing games strictly due to extremely poor defensive playcalling. Fans were calling for Gary Gibbs’ head for two seasons, and Payton finally had no choice but to fire him. Its kinda the same situation as you’ve had with BVG, except you didn’t have to fire him, he left.
When you say "most of us", you must be referring to the guys on SBN.
Which I can believe but I’d say the majority of fans nationally are noobs. Admit it, championships will draw the bandwagon.
Rule #1: Double tap.
by Ball Hawk on Jan 11, 2012 9:11 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Admit it, you wore a Paper Bag
with ’Aints scribbled on it.
by Falcons1133 on Jan 11, 2012 11:16 AM EST up reply actions
The fact that he took us to the 2006 NFCCG brought him alot of slack
But after 2008 he used alot of that up and people were wanting his head
by mississippisaintsfan on Jan 11, 2012 8:03 AM EST up reply actions
I don't think Saints Fans like Gregg Williams
But he’s aggressive, which is probably what we need (on offense) even though we might be turnover prone.
But if we have a 2000 Raven defense or an 2005-6 Bears Defense, we can afford that.
by brotherbrown on Jan 11, 2012 1:43 AM EST up reply actions
Most Saints fans love GW
He is alot better then what we had in GG
I believe if he had better D players his schemes would work better
But you gotta giva up a little D to get the Players we need for our O
by mississippisaintsfan on Jan 11, 2012 8:05 AM EST up reply actions
I don't particularly like the results of the defense
GW gives the saints play by play against teams NOT like the Falcons.
But in the grand scheme of things it works because the Saints still win, and teams play right into GW hands.
So for the moment, you can’t argue with end results.
by brotherbrown on Jan 11, 2012 1:22 PM EST up reply actions
We need somebody excellent. There’s a lot for an offensive coordinator to be attracted to here. We should be able to get anybody we want. Whoever it is, they need to the next big thing. They should be willing to install a complicated passing attack that will utilize all of the weapons on our roster.
I’m tired of simple, run-of-the-mill schemes and play calls. Can’t wait to see who they get.
This is my corn. You people are guests in my corn.
Thank you Vishnu!
I can’t believe they hired him and you know Jag fans are gonna come over to see what we think. Wow! I don’t think the Falcons make the change but man oh man, I’m so happy! It’ like that old Divinyl’s record. When I think of him leaving…I touch myself!
A word to the wise ain't necessary - it's the stupid ones that need the advice.
he's got a point
And since you did harp on it, oh idk. Maybe you need to eat a 4 pack of krystal (that’s punishment enough, imo)
that's speaking to Frozen
not you, Erihury
I admit I still can't believe an NFL team hired him
A word to the wise ain't necessary - it's the stupid ones that need the advice.
by FrozenFinger on Jan 10, 2012 11:21 PM EST up reply actions
I said Falcons wouldn't fire him and Jags
wouldn’t hire him so half right. Still can’t believe that anybody would hire that guy and you guys have to admit that you can’t believe that he got another job as well. Anyway never happier to be so wrong!
A word to the wise ain't necessary - it's the stupid ones that need the advice.
by FrozenFinger on Jan 10, 2012 11:20 PM EST up reply actions
Yes...but did
you see anyone hiring him..especially after Sunday?
A word to the wise ain't necessary - it's the stupid ones that need the advice.
by FrozenFinger on Jan 10, 2012 11:23 PM EST up reply actions
From this point on, it's all on TD and Smitty...
First, let me say that the past four years have been the best consecutive four years the Falcons have ever put together. We all know this and we all know that the efforts of TD and Smitty have been the reasons for this. However, I, like all of you, have begun to expect more from our Dirty Birds.
The playoff failures and the inability of this team to reach what we all feel is their true potential is unnerving. I, like many of you have blamed BVG and Mularkey for this team coming up short when it mattered. But my biggest fear is that it’s Smitty who may have had some hand in it. Obviously, at this point, we have no idea as to why we’ve played so conservatively on both offense and defense. We don’t know why we tend to play not to lose, rather than to win. Hell, I’d love to know why we seem to suck at drawing up some decent plays to convert a 4th and 6inchs. But my biggest fear is that it rest more on the shoulders of Smitty, than Mularkey or BVG.
Don’t get me wrong, Smitty is by far, my favorite Falcon’s coach of all time, but as we move into the new era of his tenure, I’m hopeful that we do realize that changing the OC and DC positions is truly going to change this team for the better. If we continue to see similar plays next year on both sides of the ball, then I fear Smitty will be the one to go next.
Smitty's got balls
I don’t think he’s overly conservative, or else he wouldn’t go for those 4th down conversions like he does. Personally, I loved the decisions, just not the plays called – MULARKEY!!! (shaking fist angrily in the air) – and the outcomes of them. Statistically, they weren’t bad calls to go for it, but the PLAYS and execution were what sucked. Like what was previously mentioned, we need a top-notch OC that Smitty lets run that side of the ball. I do think Mularkey is a good fit for the Jags right now, but that said, GOOD FRIGGIN RIDDANCE!!
by HotLunch4You on Jan 10, 2012 11:16 PM EST up reply actions
I don't fear thatt he's overly conservative,
I fear he’s old school stubborn. On the 4th down attempts, I love his aggressiveness. I just fear that if he is actually the one making the final play call, then he could be aggressive to a fault. As in, “let’s run it up the gut and show them who’s the stronger team.” Or as Munson might say…“let’s hit em in the nose with a hobnail boot!”
Either way, as he’s the boss, the blame falls on his shoulders. If he doesn’t like the conservative plays called by Mularkey on 4th down, then he should demand something a bit more creative.
I obviously have zero proof that this is the case, but as I said…it’s my fear.
Couldn't agree more.
Having a set is nice and all but that ‘s not what it’s all about sometimes…sometimes you have to have the guts to not kill your team. I don’t think we would’ve won the giants game if the 1st down decisions had gone our way but if you don’t get the 1st down (especially if it theoretically costs the team 3 points) then being “conservative” in that case is being smarter. and don’t even get me started on the saints game 4th down decision.
by A. "Falmouth" Thomas on Jan 10, 2012 11:54 PM EST up reply actions
I still liked Mike Smith going for it on all occasions
The execution was just awful and the play calling.
by brotherbrown on Jan 11, 2012 1:46 AM EST up reply actions
In fairness
When it’s fourth and inches, you SHOULD be able to make that gain. Last year’s Falcons would have in those situations.
The fact that the team epically failed in all of those instances is the perfect summary of this season.
in fact
Last year’s Falcons would have in those situations.
when we lost both Koenen and Bryant to injury (I just can’t recall, if it was 2010 or 2009) and even asked Biermann to kickoff, we went for it on 4th downs on nearly every drive, and most of the time we got it. I even remember yelling that going for it on 4th down is almost a lock, while a FG is not.
Atlanta Falcons fan in Moscow, Russia
^ Agree 100%
We are still using the same fliping plays that we were restricted to when Vick was here.
Perilously close to a 2007 style depression.
by VaderX5 on Jan 10, 2012 11:52 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Agreed that the heat is on Smitty and TD next year to get it done. But it’s also on the players. I don’t believe Mularkey ever got Matt Ryan to his full potential, but there are those who think otherwise….
by ChardeeMacDennis on Jan 10, 2012 11:27 PM EST up reply actions
Not sure TD would be on the hot seat
He has done a masterful job of assembling the talent. If the offense sputters next year and we can’t make it to the playoffs, I think Smitty will be the only one feeling the heat.
lol TD doesn't call the plays
he gets players. and look at what a great job he’s done; JJ, Ryan, TG, etc. It’s on the coaches for not using them effectively.
Yeah i wouldnt be as mad
if we lost the game 24-21 or 24-14 but no it was 24-2 thats ridiculous weather its was MM or MS they need to change it up get a proper LT,RG, and C maybe and go 4 wr and spread it out why things werent open down field we had no one underneath to worry about, you think teams are scared of tony g who prob runs a 5.6 right now common man get HD the ball good things happen See saints game, Jags preseason, and panthers game
I was worried by the possibility of this kind of outcome
you just highlighted.
because if we lost 24-21 despite all those glaring weaknesses everywhere around the team, it could bye another year to both coordinators, and even Smitty wouldn’t feel the hot seat.
however cruel it may sound, it was a blessing in disguise – a loss as devastating as it was prompted the owner to pull the trigger.
Atlanta Falcons fan in Moscow, Russia
I think Mularkey was gone regardless
He’s been itching to become a head coach again, and it was looking like Jax wanted him badly even before the playoff game.
As for BVG – I think he may also have been a goner, simply because he and Smitty were no longer seeing eye-to-eye regarding the defense.
I agree.......they must be willing to change their philosophy
……its all about what you emphasize. TD and MS emphasize execution and not making mistakes above all else……….Sean Payton emphasizes being explosive and keeping your foot on the gas above all else.
TD and MS “talked about” being more explosive, but it was lip service. It’s time for a conscientious shift to a balls-to-the-walls approach……..we won’t keep up otherwise.
by AuxiliaryHusky on Jan 11, 2012 5:58 PM EST up reply actions
They're idea of explosive was incomplete
If you look at the Saints and Packers – arguably the two best offenses in the NFL right now – their strength is not tied-up in one receiver. They have a stable of weapons – from tight ends, to slot receivers, to downfield receivers, to possession guys, to multiple running backs. And most importantly – they utilize all of them.
If you cover the slot, they hit the TE. If you cover the TE, they’ll hit the screen. If you play for the screen, they’ll go deep.
The Falcons have these guys, but they were woefully under-utilized during this season. It can’t be all Julio and Roddy. If you don’t use guys like HD or Meier, they’ll never draw coverage. And guys like Quizz can completely throw off an offense by taking a screen for 15 to 20 yards.
We have the tools in place – now, we need the right OC to put it all together.
This transition could be a rocky one guys
don’t assume just because BVG and MM are gone that things are going to miraculously turn around. This is what we all wanted, now who the heck fills these spots? Smitty has got to be filling the heat….I can.
Yep, they were Smitty's guys.
But wouldn’t be shocked if we missed playoffs next season. They hired a guy whose offense got shut out in a playoff game…wow!
A word to the wise ain't necessary - it's the stupid ones that need the advice.
by FrozenFinger on Jan 10, 2012 11:13 PM EST up reply actions
I agree. A lot will need to change in order to make the playoffs next yr. Car is not going to rollover
by Brog on Jan 10, 2012 11:34 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
Same thing happened in college with Richt.
'There are two pains in life. There is the pain of discipline and the pain of disappointment. If you can handle the pain of discipline, then you'll never have to deal with the pain of disappointment,'- Nick Saban
You're absolutely right.
I’m not sure weather to renew my tickets or not. God I don’t want to have to pay to sit through 5-6 blowout defeats. I’m scurred.
That's what I was saying on another thread
This could be a down year for the Falcons
And historically going back to the 80’s this coming season fits that trend.
by brotherbrown on Jan 11, 2012 1:23 PM EST up reply actions
Gone
MM had his head in Florida already! This is why we scored 2 points defensively! He was gone!!!!!
by Sbaron55 on Jan 10, 2012 11:17 PM EST via mobile reply actions
That is inexcusable
He shouldn’t be able to drive through or use GA airspace for the rest of his life.
by Craig Guinn on Jan 10, 2012 11:33 PM EST up reply actions
Only for his way out of town
after that he better find another route besides I-75.
by Falcons1133 on Jan 11, 2012 11:05 AM EST up reply actions
If Bartsimpsonkowski is given the OC job
Are we better or worse or nearly the same (which is still bad)?
Good question...Cincy fired him even after they knew they'd go offense in draft
A word to the wise ain't necessary - it's the stupid ones that need the advice.
by FrozenFinger on Jan 10, 2012 11:22 PM EST up reply actions
Better, I think
Though probably not right away.
He was the OC in Cincy for a long, long time, and was mostly a pretty successful one. I think the offense would be a little pass-friendlier with him in charge.
Still not my first choice.
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by Dave Choate on Jan 10, 2012 11:25 PM EST up reply actions
It's the coach and players too,
But is Cincy really where we want to go? Just get someone who makes dynamic decisions and actually watched the game in progress. When I want to start calling plays something is bad wrong.
by Craig Guinn on Jan 10, 2012 11:31 PM EST up reply actions
Dave...you sure on that?
I did some pre-Falcons research on him last night…in nearly 20 years of NFL coaching, he’s had 2 winning seasons…and neither of those were blowout seasons. To be fair, he had a few .500 seasons as well…but I’m sure that’s not where anyone in this city wants to go.
The thing that surprised me the most though…(!)…. is that he’s a quartback coach who’s never played nor coached QB at either a collegiate or professional level prior to joining the Falcons. This is according to Wikpedia. As a player, he was a WR, and has been a WR coach and OC.
Not sure this is where we want to go…I REALLY hope we have some other candidates in the mix.
by williamandrews31 on Jan 11, 2012 12:14 AM EST up reply actions
That's right...
I thought Hue Jackson was the OC in Cincy when they had that explosive offense, but it was Bratkowski. HJ was the WR coach.
So perhaps there could be a slight improvement with him, but I still hope it’s some other wizard.
by brotherbrown on Jan 11, 2012 1:50 AM EST up reply actions
history shows
that a major shift delivers positive results in the first year, as it signifies change to something that was turning stagnant. there’s the emotional part to it, and the fact that early in the season opposing teams won’t have much tape to study and prepare.
Atlanta Falcons fan in Moscow, Russia
Agree...
…completely. I want coordinators with an unquenchable thirst for their opponents’ tears.
by HotLunch4You on Jan 11, 2012 12:28 AM EST up reply actions
Dimitroff called Dunta Robinson
“inconsistent at times” in Q & A on AJC.com. This in response to a question about Robinson and Edwards free agent signings. Interesting he mentioned Edwards getting better when he returns next year but did not mention Dunta returning…hmmm.
Dimitroff has been
"inconsistent at times" in my opinion.
He drafted:
Ryan, Douglass (though ridiculously under-used), Quizz, Biermann, Weatherspoon, Moore, special teams touchdown saver Chris Owens. (Left Lofton out because I keep scratching my head at how conspicuously he doesn’t make defensive audibles when offenses audible out of plays when they see our D. Hmmm, Vilma, Boley, etc. did that against us.)
but
he drafted Baker (in the first), Jerry, the touchdown giver CB Chris Owens, traded away the future for instant rewards (and i like julio); that worked against the colts and bucs but amounted to 0 offensive points in the playoffs.
Brought in Tony G. and (astutely) Mike Peterson
but
Paid top dollar for a bump and run corner for a soft zone system and signed Jamaal Anderson’s bikini-model twin brother to add explosiveness to our pass rush.
And he DID hire the 2 coordinators we’re so glad to see go.
Overall I think he’s a pretty good GM but…
by A. "Falmouth" Thomas on Jan 11, 2012 12:25 AM EST up reply actions
eeeeeeh
just bitter that we got killed, i guess.
by A. "Falmouth" Thomas on Jan 11, 2012 12:26 AM EST up reply actions
Chris Owens the Touchdown giver?
Still living in 2010 eh?
In 2011 he saved a few, like in Minnesota, and the Second Saints game…
by brotherbrown on Jan 11, 2012 1:54 AM EST up reply actions
Chris Owens was worlds better at football this season.
Unfortunately, that still makes him mediocre.
by VenomySnicket on Jan 11, 2012 2:01 AM EST up reply actions
he's not used right
I know he’s better than we’ve seen.
by brotherbrown on Jan 11, 2012 2:02 AM EST up reply actions
He has worked wonders on ST
At least keep him around for those times when everyone else fails to tackle the returner and Owens is just magically there to save the day.
I think Chris Owens will Shine
In man to man coverage, he looked lost in Zone, tho. Same with Dunta.
Yes
Owens has great speed and is also very athletic. He did a fairly good job filling in for Grimes during the season.
Likewise, Franks showed great cover ability.
I like the future
If Walls is the team’s fourth corner this year, I think they’d be doing pretty well.
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Walls and Owens should start
Especially if Grimes ends up walking.
And draft another Corner for our 2nd or 3rd rounder and a DE on the other.
by brotherbrown on Jan 11, 2012 1:25 PM EST up reply actions
Walls may be a starter down the line
I imagine Franks/Owens will start opposite Dunta next season.
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He improved
and at nickle, he’s not terrible i guess. but I agree with venomy…he’s fairly mediocre.
but again, i’m still bitter about the game.
by A. "Falmouth" Thomas on Jan 11, 2012 9:01 PM EST up reply actions
As GM's go
TD’s record has to be one of the better ones. I have no stats and it would be interesting for someone to compile them, but even the best personnel guys whiff on players from time to time.
this
Even a 50% “bust” rate, if you will, places a gm among the better in the league.
Wish the 50% would be more toward the lower rounds
Two First rounders were a bust (Peters & Baker) and two were solid/very good (Ryan & Spoon).
He does good in the 2nd – 4th rounds tho.
He also does well in later rounds
Quizz was a steal in the fifth, and getting Andrew Jackson (OLine) and Cliff Matthews (DE) in the 7th may end up being some of the best steals.
So
He should trade away all of our first round picks for multiple lower round picks and we would be awesome.
by BigFalcon84 on Jan 11, 2012 10:03 AM EST up reply actions
there's always a need for 1st round picks
the lack of them is why the Patriots are now just a very very good team instead of 18-1.
And first round picks tend to be a big risk, since the expectations are higher. What I mean is if Corey Peters turned out to be a bust (he hasn’t, but bear with me), there’d be no real complaints since he’s only a 3rd round pick. But Sam Baker being a bust, of course there are complaints.
I think you mean
Jerry instead of Peters. Sorry if i’m mistaken.
by A. "Falmouth" Thomas on Jan 11, 2012 9:05 PM EST up reply actions
Correct me if I'm wrong...
but didn’t MS bring our coordinators with him? Not to mention you can’t expect every single one of his picks to succeed, and he has a very good ratio of busts to successes.
Dunta's big bonus
Is this year. I expect him to be on the market. for as little as a 3rd or 4th rounder to loosen up some cap for #50 and #20.
Best ATL news all.week!
Thanks JAX
by DSGB34 on Jan 10, 2012 11:29 PM EST via Android app reply actions
Wooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!
"Why don't you purify yourself in the waters of Lake Minnetonka?" - Prince
by !AtlFalcons-fan! on Jan 10, 2012 11:31 PM EST reply actions 5 recs
That's one beautiful jersey!!
Braves.
Falcons.
Gamecocks.
You guys know Dimitroff
rarely calls out a guy. He’s always vanilla with his statements about players. So to call Dunta inconsistent is HUGE especially for a guy you gave a 57 million dollar contract to. Dunta could be next people.
I think alot of guys are gone.
Baker, Biermann, Decoud, and probably Grimes.
If we let go Dunta, that may leave us pretty thin at the position.
"NLDS or bust" - Bobby Cox
We don't have to continue to settle Atlanta. We're better than that.
by DopeFalcons on Jan 10, 2012 11:34 PM EST up reply actions
If Grimes leaves...
I think that will be because Grimes wants to leave the Falcons. I think Dimitroff will make the appropriate offer to keep him here. I mean lets use common sense here which would you rather keep Dunta or Grimes? You cut Dunta and you give the money to Grimes or you restructure Dunta in a way that Grimes is clearly the higher paid of the 2. I for one think Dunta is done as a Falcon. Baker and Biermann..who really cares. Decoud would stay only if he were very cheap but I got a feeling the way he dances after every tackle that his value of himself is much higher than the market will allow. Snelling had to find this out last season.
Baker has a year left, I think
I think he may have one last shot at RG this year.
So did JA98 when they dropped him.
Rule #1: Double tap.
by Ball Hawk on Jan 11, 2012 9:55 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
If Mr. Blank
Said Smitty and Dimitrov were doing the assessment, then they should be solid.
by Craig Guinn on Jan 10, 2012 11:37 PM EST up reply actions
Nah
Blank and Dimitroff have both used his name multiple times, and I don’t take that lightly. He’ll be back.
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by Dave Choate on Jan 10, 2012 11:37 PM EST up reply actions
True
But how often do we see an entire coaching staff leave and the Head Coach is still the last man standing? Not often right… Mularky will probably take a number of our assistants too.
Is it possible...
To fire him before he leaves….just for fun
Does seem kind of empty this way doesn't it?
A word to the wise ain't necessary - it's the stupid ones that need the advice.
by FrozenFinger on Jan 10, 2012 11:38 PM EST up reply actions
Grimes, why?
Why would we not try to re-sign Grimes? I know he’s due for a payday, but he’s one of our best…
It depends on the DC we get
Grimes is a great zone guy, but not a man-cover guy. The next DC’s scheme will determine who stays and goes.
Hmmmm....
What makes you think he wouldn’t be good in man-to-man coverage? Just curious…
by Falcons1133 on Jan 11, 2012 11:00 AM EST up reply actions
Holy Shit
This actually happened. I’m not dreaming. WOW
Horrible tought
Suppose it’s been MS holding MM back?
A word to the wise ain't necessary - it's the stupid ones that need the advice.
I WILL MURDER YOU WITH AN AXE
I mean…no?
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by Dave Choate on Jan 10, 2012 11:48 PM EST up reply actions
I just....
woke my wife and kids laughing at this….tyvm
I mean really..think about it..man that would be horrible
Yasinksas says that Brat was brought in because MM might get hired away. Or what if he brings in Koetter from the Jags. Damn, I’m never happy!
A word to the wise ain't necessary - it's the stupid ones that need the advice.
by FrozenFinger on Jan 10, 2012 11:53 PM EST up reply actions
It is a really scary thought
I guess we’re gonna find out.
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by Dave Choate on Jan 11, 2012 12:10 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
sounds very plausible
oh well, can’t win them all.
or any.
by brotherbrown on Jan 11, 2012 1:57 AM EST up reply actions
Wife and kids back to sleep....
Now I will be up all night worrying if it was MS fault….smh
Don't worry
I wouldn’t actually murder anyone. And I don’t own an axe.
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by Dave Choate on Jan 11, 2012 12:11 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Well Im happy
I just hope we get someone better? This season coming up should be easy i believe so we need a better OC and DC
MJD should
get one of those reinforced helmets. He will be ramming his head into the ass of his offensive lineman 40 times a game now.
Funny
A word to the wise ain't necessary - it's the stupid ones that need the advice.
by FrozenFinger on Jan 10, 2012 11:54 PM EST up reply actions
Oh happy day!!
If it takes an off year to recover from the debacle that was the abomination of a backwoods marriage between BVG and MM then so be it and it will be a worth while sacrifice.
Good luck JAX. You have just hired an arrogant ass that has a terrible track record as an OC and HC.
bRatkowski....
would be the same thing only worse….IMO
Just think....
REAL screen passes! Not the generic junk we’re used to.
A word to the wise ain't necessary - it's the stupid ones that need the advice.
It might just be
Bratkowski guys..it might just be Bratkowski. Look for some more shoes to drop later this week.
I've been refreshing ESPN and PFT and The Falcoholic all night in hopes this would happen
Sweet dreams for me!
Matty Beef Cake
Offseason stregnth conditioning
He needs to pass not run
Holgorsen is a sharp OC who softens pass rushes even with his playcalling. Go check out his work history.
This is the biggest moment since Matty showed up in ATL?
It seems like TD always picks guys who are good and no one knows it but him…I want a big name so bad for one of the jobs but i just dont think its TD’s style…which pisses me off sometimes
Its gonna be bratkowski
and that pisses me off why is mike smith scared to go outside the box and pick up an offensive guru this is dumb if it is bratkowski i will be one upset fan that same shit is gonna happen with him I like smitty he needs to let go of the offense let the OC do his thing cause really our play calls are dumb as fuuuuu and so predictable idk if its cause ive watched every game but during the giants game i knew what we were gonna run let alone wat the giants do, Ex when roddy comes in motion thats obv a pa roll out dump of to him so stupid im upset cause its gonna be bratowski F*@%
Same Goes For The D
If we keep running these soft zones im gonna trip out, lets look at it if this was the cfl falcons would have greatest defense ever. First two downs is primarly run so their oline vs our front 7 and since we have a stud front 7 teams are usually in 3rd and long situations PERFECT!!!!, but then we go to soft zone and say here have the first down, correct me if im wrong but when a team is facing 3rd and longer like 7-10yrds u send the sink put pressure on the qb to make a quick decision
Jets should fire Rex...
…and let us welcome him with open arms. :o)
by HotLunch4You on Jan 11, 2012 12:32 AM EST up reply actions
And the thing with him
He knew they had to get agressive and throw the ball more some not so predictive play calls, well he let brian take over but its too bad sanchez sucks dick and that back fired but wat im getting at is hes a defense guy so let the OC worry bout the offense, remember it all has to be approved by the HV
Mularkey and BVG both gone?
It’s like get Xmas two months in a row!!!
Is Dunta Robinsons contract up?
I seen a few people say he may not return next year.
by Bigru3 on Jan 11, 2012 12:33 AM EST via mobile reply actions
He's due a huge roster bonus
And that means he may get cut/traded/restructured. I wouldn’t be surprised at any of the above. I would be disappointed if he got $12M this year.
Yeah - I'd be surprise if he's back
As with Mike Jenkins, they’ll probably put him on the trade block early to see if they can get anything for him. I can’t imagine he’d fetch anything better than a late 3rd round to 4th round pick. If he can’t be traded, he’ll likely be cut. With Franks and Owens showing some good improvement this year, we’ve got enough to move on without him.
I'd take a 3rd or 4th rounder
We need picks!
by Falcons1133 on Jan 11, 2012 10:55 AM EST up reply actions
I need help
Does anyone know where I can find quotes from an interview of Matt Ryan talking about Mularkey as a coach? I write for a Mizzou blog and want to talk about Mularkey as a QB coach relating to Blaine Gabbert.
Check out the up-and-coming Mizzou blog: http://www.zoulogy.com
Umm Check Out.. .
The obituary lol sorry had to get that one out. I really don’t know if he really mentioned Mularkey in any news. Maybe in video clips with Matt Ryan mentioning Jack-a*$ in interviews.
Don’t anticipate greatness right off the bat
I think Dave is right.
Even if the Falcons land an Offensive Wizard and a Defense Guru, we still might be in transition with the offense.
It even took Drew Brees a few years to get set in the New Orleans offense.
Not saying that it will take THAT long, but maybe a solid year or so.
Oh hell yes!
Van Gorder and his soft zone defense and Mike Mularkey and his lame duck offense are out of town! Funny thing is, reading the article, Its states the Jags were looking to improve on the offense. Did they watch the playoff game? Oh well, our garbage is somebody else’s treasure. Now then I can think of a long list of OC’s and DC’s of who I’d like to see join our squad and help us climb over that hurdle!
Todd Haley for OC
Mike Nolan for DC (providing Spags goes to the Eagles)
Coaching wins championships!
Just the NFL?
I think it’s a rule in life that people rise to their greatest level of incompetence. I’ve worked for managers who couldn’t find their way out of a wet paper bag.
by The DW on Jan 11, 2012 9:35 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
The Peter Pan Principle
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Just heard D. Ledbetter on the radio talking about what he knows:
- He thinks today’s press conference is going to be ‘big news’ and they will make an announcement regarding one of the coordinator positions
- Speculated that Mularkey may bring Bratkowski with him to Jacksonville because ‘they are good buddies,’ but is unsure if there were any promises made when Brat was hired about the OC position
- Has heard they have looked at Spagnuolo, but not too many details on that
- Mentioned Dirk Koetter (Jacksonville OC) as an OC candidate
It was an oddly coherent and informative conversation for DOL. Some more stuff to chew on. I’m not a fan of the Koetter choice – I think Maurice Jones-Drew proved this year that it’s pretty much just him out there.
I imagnine
that if Spags was the guy then we would have heard a report of an interview. He’s the biggest name out there.
Spags on Vacation this week
I heard on Radio.
Atlanta Radio?
What’s the best radio station for Falcons info?
by widderslainte on Jan 11, 2012 8:43 AM EST up reply actions
680 the fan
790 the zone for a more yankee perspective.
790 the zone or 680 the fan
Each have a great iPhone app. It’s awesome for fans outside Atl. I live in Charleston, SC and listen to falcons coverage everyday
by Brog on Jan 11, 2012 9:11 AM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
Chuck and Chirnoff are funny AF.
Rule #1: Double tap.
by Ball Hawk on Jan 11, 2012 9:20 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
You mean the "Tebow man-love show"
It is funny.
by Falcons1133 on Jan 11, 2012 10:53 AM EST up reply actions
Mark Bradley
mentioned Rick Neuheisel from UCLA as someone the Falcons may look at. That’s a name I’ve not heard mentioned. Although, it’s still early.
Rick N.
I laugh everytime I see his face, such a douchy little sperm of a man. Even his name gives me the heebee jeebees. Nope, don’t care if he’s Vince Lombardi incarnate. Can you imagine how tired our fingers will be trying to type his name in the coming months?
Rule #1: Double tap.
by Ball Hawk on Jan 11, 2012 9:16 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Why is everyone so sure Hue would come back to ATL?
I get the feeling the Petrino saga may have damaged that relationship.
I'm on the Twitter: twitter.com/edgrohl
I'm not sure
But I would like them to at least take a shot at it.
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by Dave Choate on Jan 11, 2012 10:06 AM EST up reply actions
If not, I am all for it. I am just wondering if there are lingering effects still out there.
I'm on the Twitter: twitter.com/edgrohl
Personally, I'm not a Hue fan
I don’t think he matches the personality of this franchise. He appeared to be a power hungry HC and his press-conference at the end of the season – where he basically said he did a good job but the players lost the game – was very revealing of his character.
I want an OC that will protect his players from criticism externally, but be willing to hold them accountable internally. HJ does not appear to be that kind of guy.
Good Luck to MM
He did a good but not great job here. At least he did a good job early on in Matt Ryan’s career. Its good time for him to move on and develop another QB and its Falcons time to rise up and win some playoff games.
It's all about Process...
Trade Turner
Resign Snelling.
What do you think we could for Turner with I think one year left in his contract?
Really? for a 1400 yard rusher?
Theres got to be some desparate teams out there that could atleast get us more…Maybe a trade for a veteran pass rusher?
by Falcons1133 on Jan 11, 2012 11:06 AM EST up reply actions
Nope - I don't see it
He’s going to hit the 30 wall next year, he’s been over 300 carries 3 of 4 seasons and has had persistent injury issues since 2009. His dismal playoff performance didn’t help either.
Teams are also looking for versatile backs that can catch passes and run. He doesn’t fit the modern NFL back mold anymore.
I can't help but think about Turner back in the early 90's
He would have been a true superstar then.
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by Dave Choate on Jan 11, 2012 11:28 AM EST up reply actions
Dear Jacksonville Jaguars.....
welcome to 0-16!
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