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Jan-29-2012

Ranking NFL in Reverse

The NFL season is pretty much over for most of the NFL fanatics. My season lately seems to end with one playoff game appearance and then done. Here’s hoping that next season will be different for my Falcons.

With the Superbowl a week away and general disliking both teams, I thought it would be fun to rank the NFL teams in reverse order, i.e. rank based on how much I hate each team. This sounds simple enough but there are those middle tier teams that I don’t really hate or love. Oh well, this should at least waste some of my time putting together as well as yours if you are still reading this.

My Personal NFL Reverse Rank

32) New Orleans Saints – I can’t even begin to describe how much I hate this team. They could lose every game of the regular/post/pre season and I’d walk away with a smile on my face. Divisional rivals for years. Their recent success doesn’t make it any more fun as I have to hear about them everywhere.
31) New England Patriots – Not sure if it is just the Patriots or Tom Brady that make me hate this team so much. I don’t like any of the players. This could be similar to the Yankees approach where we hate them because they are good….No. I’m not going to accept that answer. I hate them because Tom Brady is a punk.
30) New York Jets – Again another team that I simply hate as a whole. I’ve liked maybe 1-2 players on the roster in the past but not true any more. And the more they run their mouth the more the hatred comes. Interesting to note I have 2 of the AFC East within the top 3. Theme? I doubt it.
29) Tampa Bay Buccaneers – NFC South rivalry appears yet again. Thankfully their implosion of a season was fun to watch, it doesn’t make that early season loss to them hurt any less. And they have a Superbowl win during a time when they had a horrible coach that I now have to somewhat listen to during Monday Night Football. And why does Gruden get a Quarterbacks corner? He hated every quarterback he ever had. He’s the Steve Spurrier of the NFL.
28) Washington Redskins – Terrible owner. Money blown every season and somehow they are still profitable. I don’t get it. Every year is the “it” year for them and they can barely make it to the break even point, if that.
27) New York Giants – Fans that are obnoxious. Writers that write crap like this. They have the fourth best Manning (I’ve never seen the mom play so I’m not sure if Eli should be moved lower). Every year they threaten to fire everyone but yet make the playoffs and this year to the actual Superbowl. They have Danny Ware (ex-UGA) but calling him DJ Ware just makes me sick. Of course this is funnier if he actually prefers that name.
26) Dallas Cowboys – This is the year. Definitely the year the Cowboys break through and return to the glory of America’s team. DOUBT IT! Why do I have to keep hearing this? They fail and fall apart. Owner is entertaining but needs to drop the ego and GM responsibilities. I did give them some love for taking Keith Brooking off the Falcons’ hands but can’t save them from this spot on my list.
25) Philadelphia Eagles – Yes, this is the NFC East section of my countdown. “Beast of the East”? Yeah right. Dream team was just as funny. I’m a Falcons fan and many might think that makes me root against Michael Vick but not true. I believe he served his time and deserves another chance. But the fans of Philly just don’t accept the talent that they have. They hated McNabb for years and I’m certain any other team would have loved to have him. Andy Reid makes them a contender each year but even he is hated. Call me when you have a team that didn’t have back-to-back winning seasons until after 42 years.
24) Green Bay Packers – Brett Farve….I hate that guy. Enough said.
23) Seattle Seahawks – Pete Carroll is who can be thanked for this spot. Wasn’t a fan of his while at USC and he’s not changed much while in the NFL. The only saving point for this team was the wonderful playoff win over the Saints with the Earthquake Run.
22) Arizona Cardinals – They bounced my Falcons from the playoffs but I can blame that more on Keith Brooking (BECAUSE I CAN) than anything else. I love Larry and think he is one of the best but everything else about this team just rubs me the wrong way.
21) Oakland Raiders – Owner really stands out as the reason. Also their fans are living in the past more than any other team I know.
20) San Francisco 49ers – Old division rival from the NFC West days though I still can’t understand why Saints and Falcons were listed in the West. This may be my new home city but it doesn’t mean I have to love this team. Before moving out here, I would have ranked the 49ers higher but they are slowly growing on me. When they move to Santa Clara, I’ll probably increase my dislike but only time will tell.
19) St. Louis Rams – Old division rival from the NFC West days. And….and….I don’t know. Not enjoying a team who can’t seem to stay in one spot (LA, St. Louis, wherever is next)
18) Minnesota Vikings – This is due to the 1998 season matchup in one of the greatest playoff games of all time, at least for my team. Watch NFL films and you’ll see the sideline reporters and Vikings staff chatting about the Superbowl plans when they hadn’t even played the game. Too bad they lost and ended up just making plans for ordering in while the Dirty Birds were on their way to….a bad showing.
17) Cincinnati Bengals – A coach that can’t win. A team whose facilities should just be the local jail cell. And an orange that burns my eyes with each viewing.
16) San Diego Chargers – They fired a coach who won 14 games in a season. They are always on the “this is our time” list but fail miserably. But man do I love those powder blues. San Diego Super Chargers!
15) Chicago Bears – I despise many things about this team but the Superfans always make me laugh.
14) Denver Broncos – I’ve disliked this team to the days back of the 1998 Superbowl (Go Figure), but I was rooting for them at times this year. I hated Tebow in college due to another rival, but I find myself cheering for someone who doesn’t have the skills needed but tries so hard that he makes all of the others around him to work just as hard.
13) Jacksonville Jaguars – Welcome to the portion of my list where I don’t really care about this team.
12) Tennessee Titans – See reason above.
11) Kansas City Chiefs – A team I don’t get to see that often but still find myself rooting for rather than against.
10) Buffalo Bills – Slick looking uniforms this year and a fan base that doesn’t give up. Even when the human body shouldn’t be outside in the cold they are still there every game.
09) Carolina Panthers – No true hatred for this division rival, but Cam Newton could make me begin disliking this team again.
08) Detroit Lions – Shocking as it may be, I don’t like Stafford, but I like everything else on this team. I’d move them more on the likable side of my list if they changed the game plan to just throw it up to Calvin Johnson.
07) Pittsburgh Steelers – I like the blue collar aspect of this team and the thought that they just want to run the football. Also hard hitting defense is fun.
06) Cleveland Browns – A team that loses this much just can’t be hated. They even had their team ripped away from them but their fans stayed loyal.
05) Houston Texans – Not sure what I truly like about this team. They aren’t great but they keep coming back each year getting better and better. Schaub, ex Falcon, does help along with any team that selects any other player over Reggie Bush.
04) Baltimore Ravens – Another adopted AFC team thanks to a friend living near the city. I like the attitude of the defense and the coaching staff. I don’t really want Flacco to succeed at making the Superbowl before Matt Ryan but I root for them to crush those higher on this list when possible.
03) Indianapolis Colts – This team makes it at this spot simply because of Peyton Manning. If he’s gone, then my liking this team will definitely change.
02) Miami Dolphins – This is my adopted AFC team. In years where they are bad, they are fighting until the end and never giving up. The team had the greatest QB of all time, Marino. And they are constantly putting Sanchez and Brady in the ground which is good enough for me.
01) Atlanta Falcons – There should really be no doubt that this would be the team I hate the least since it is my beloved team. Here’s hoping that in 2012 we actually do RISE UP!

Hmm….that went differently than I had originally anticipated.

Posted under Sports
Jun-12-2011

This and That

Huh….

So this is what my website looks like? I’ve been away from it for so long that I actually forgot about it. That can’t be good for whatever readership I might have had or have.

Anyway, let’s see what’s been going on since my last post dated May 2, 2011.

Welcome to the summer of superheroes. Throughout the summer a new or returning set of characters will be filling the silver screen. Yes, I plan on seeing them all and so far I’ve been doing good with Thor and X-Men: First Class already checked off. Next up is my eagerly anticipated Green Lantern. I know others aren’t that hyped but I am. I’m not 100% excited by the look, but certain pieces of the recent trailers really lead me to believe this one is going to be fun and good. Now I just need to find a 3D IMAX near me as this is the first film that I believe 3D will actually help its plot. Then I’m off to Captain America, Cars 2, and Harry Potter. I’ll be broke by the end of it all.

It’s Wedding Season! Yep, most of my time….wait that’s not right. Most of my fiance’s time has been spent planning the upcoming wedding. I’m just trying to keep up and help where I can. I took over the Honeymoon planning. Sounds like fun but not really. I’m super excited about our end location (can’t state here until she finds out later) but trying to book hotels and make sure flight schedules work out can be hectic. I can’t even imagine what the true crux of wedding planning is like. My head would probably explode. Regardless, it will be a very special time for the two of us and I’m really looking forward to it.

I wasn’t that excited after the NFL Draft because of what my Falcons had to give up to get Julio Jones, but I’m getting more excited each day. I need the season to start and start now. The lockout must end so I can see free agency. I then need to hear about practices and see some of preseason competition to learn more about the new players. Then I need a season where I get to see this Madden style offense where we just score and score often. Let’s go FALCONS!!!

This week on Tuesday, Duke Nukem Forever is going to be released. I was a fan of Duke Nukem 3D back in the day so I’m really looking forward to this one. I really just need a funny, pointless video game and Duke Nukem Forever seems to fit the bill. If you’ve never played, just think of a more “mature” version of Doom or Wolfenstein. I’ve been hoarding some gift cards since Christmas so what better time to drop them. I’m also taking 2 days off from work (had to get rid of some available vacation days before the end of the year) so I’ll be holed up in my room playing video games for a 4 game weekend. Man that sounds relaxing. Just wish that IGN hadn’t released this review. 🙁

This past week was E3 and Nintendo’s presenation. I was extremely excited about this one as I knew it would show the new gaming system. Well, I was not left disappointed by the Wii U. I was sold on the name at first as it is a play on Wii 2 as well as “unique” and a wii for you. Then they showed the video of what the Wii U can do and I was blown away again. I don’t know why I’m shocked when Nintendo innovates but sometimes I’m shocked at how creative they can be to achieve it. Sure, all of the “hardcore” gamers will complain for about a year until Microsoft and Sony due the same thing. It’s happened with every console since the N64. Nintendo innovates and others copy. See analog stick, rumble pack, motion controls, etc. for examples. Overall on the Wii U, the graphics look great. The gameplay is creative and fun. The launch titles are diverse. My bank account is already preparing for this one next year.

And I guess that’s it. Let’s see how long it is now until my next posting.

Posted under Games, Heroes, Movies, Other, Sports
May-2-2011

2011 NFL Draft Recap

The weekend is over and so is the 2011 NFL Draft. It started as expected with the predicted picks going in the expected directions. It all seemed like it was going to be boring thanks to the lockout and inability to trade players….

…Then the 6th pick in the draft happened.

Player Description

Julio Jones
Julio Jones
WR, Alabama
Round 1, Pick 6 (6 overall)

The Falcons started the Draft at the 27th pick and decided to not stay there long. In my previous post, I stated I wasn’t in favor of trading up for A.J. Green. That’s a good thing because we didn’t offer enough to get Green. Instead, we have Julio Jones. My mouth was stuck open with amazement as I saw the trade begin to take place and the pick was made. Then I saw what we gave up to move up to the 6th slot (Atlanta’s first (27th overall), second (59th) and fourth-rounder (124th) and also Atlanta’s first- and fourth-round selections in 2012).

That’s right. In one single night, I saw the 2011 and 2012 NFL Draft for my dirty birds. Even Roddy White agreed when he tweeted “Well we got julio jones I’m excited…Well I was wrong we give up our draft.” It was a heavy price, but in this single trade we announced to the world that we want to win and win now. We are not building for tomorrow or a few years. We are here for today and now it is time to win. With Jones joining our offense, I expect even more teams to be afraid to face our point machine. I’m just wondering if I’ve now seen the death of my favorite 10-12 play drive offense.

Sure, our major need was DE, but I agree with the explanation given by TD and I trust our front office. Our trio (Blank, Smith, Dimitroff) did what no one else could do and provide back-to-back winning seasons and make a franchise into something it never was before, relevant.

Suggested Nicknames:

  1. The Don (a.k.a. Don Julio)
  2. Lurtz (I know this one is bad, but I can’t help but see the similarities)
  3. January Jones (I reserve this name for his stint and play that will be evident during the month of January)

Akeem Dent
Akeem Dent
ILB, Georgia
Round 3, Pick 27 (91 overall)

I’m always one for adding more depth to our dwindling/non-existent Georgia players, but Dent didn’t seem to fit our team need. He plays the ILB role and we needed more depth at OLB due to the age of Mike Peterson and potential departure of Stephen Nicholas. Coy Wire is another potential player leaving the team but I still believe depth at OLB would have been better when filling the need.

But Dent is not afraid to attack and make a hit. He’s also a good tackler. Some reports have stated he has played the OLB position in the past so he could be a versatile addition to the LB core even if he’s most notably known for being an ILB.

Jacquizz Rodgers
Jacquizz Rodgers
RB, Oregon State
Round 4, Pick 6 (145 overall)

When I saw this pick during the weekend, I didn’t like it. I loved it. One of the other needs going into the next season was at speed RB. Norwood has been injured too often and will probably be gone by the start of the season. Therefore, it is time to try to bring in someone new. Rodgers could be that guy. He’s not super fast, but he is quick and in the NFL quick can get you yards and touchdowns.

Watching him in college (not sure how that happened, possibly a bowl game), but I was mesmerized by his speed and lack of height. I mean, this is a kid that will look up to veteran Brent Grimes, literally. However, this isn’t the first time the Falcons have been using an undersized RB to get something “dunn” on the field.

Suggested Nicknames:

  1. The Quizz Show (Who’s the guy that just blew passed your defense for the gaming score? Answer: J. Rodgers)
  2. Q&A (Sticking with the Quiz theme on this one)
  3. Mr. Touchdown (From his days of playing HS in Texas)

Matt Bosher
Matt Bosher
PT, Miami
Round 6, Pick 27 (192 overall)

This was another pick I questioned for two reasons. First, who drafts a punter not named Ray Guy in any round other than the 7th? Second, we are already set at the Punter position with Michael Koenen, who only 2 years ago set the record for least return yards in a season.

But Bosher not only punted at Miami. He also was a FG kicker and can be potentially verstile at many kicking positions. Worth the pick? Maybe not, but Matt Bryant isn’t around forever and sometimes it can be nice to have a kicker available for a single team for several years. Yes, I’m stretching on this one, but I needed something to say.

Andrew Jackson
Andrew Jackson
OG, Fresno State
Round 7, Pick 7 (210 overall)

Offensive Lineman are always hard to talk about because no one really knows who they are until the screw up. Umm….then let’s look at what ESPN has to say. “Durability is a concern for Jackson and he has physical limitations, but he does have good size potential to go along with an outstanding combination of intelligence, awareness and toughness.”

Not exactly what I want to hear, but I’m not really looking for Jackson to be a full time started. My expectations are for some rotational work or simply depth at the position. If we get that, then I’d say we have value in the pick.

Cliff Matthews
Cliff Matthews
DE, South Carolina
Round 7, Pick 27 (230 overall)

Well, it took seven rounds, but the Falcons finally addressed the defensive end need. This is not the spot you want to fill it, but here we are. Even with my constant viewings of the SEC, I don’t really remember much on Matthews so I will have to default to ESPN’s short piece of analysis “Matthews has the upper-body strength, active hands and motor to provide depth at left defensive end in Atlanta’s 4-3 scheme.”

For the overall grade, I’m going with a C-. With the large amount given up for Jones, I must question the overall draft. If it were not for the Rodgers selection, I’d probably go with an F, but I also have to grade based on production and Smitty, TD, and Blank have delivered. The grade also could have been worse due to the great draft that Tampa Bay and New Orleans had. I’m still swearing over the brilliant first two draft selections by both teams. Sorry Carolina, I can’t give you any respect until Newton shows me his potential reward.

And on a final note, I did find the selection of James Carpenter funny. Mainly because his own coach couldn’t believe it.

UGA Note: The following players were taken in the draft from the University of Georgia.

  • Clint Boiling – Cincinnati Bengals (no one looks happy to go here)
  • Shaun Chapas – Dallas Cowboys (Nice selection)
  • Kris Durham – Seattle Seahawks (I hope he has a nice career there)
  • A.J. Green – Cincinnati Bengals (again, no one is happy)
  • Justin Houston – Kansas City Chiefs
Posted under Sports
Apr-24-2011

2011 NFL Draft Preview

This is the week. The week that I wait with anticipation once the post season of the NFL ends. This is the week of the NFL Draft.

However, this year is not like my years past. This year is marred by the NFL Lockout and labor situation. Uncertainties are in abundance and that kills the fun that is the draft. Sure, players will be selected, but the surprises will be fewer and far between because no players can be traded. I won’t be sitting in front of a TV responding with “What the crap? New England just traded pick 187 for [Amazing Player A]. How do they continue to do that?” No, this year I’ll be watching and saying “Wow, [Team A] just selected [Player A]. That could be an interesting fit.” See the difference in inflection and tone? It’s just not the same.

Regardless, I’ll still be present to find out just who my Atlanta Falcons choose to take with the 27th overall pick. In my eyes, our following needs are:

  • Defensive End – Where’s the explosive player for the Defensive Line that will play opposite to the “Predator” version of John Abraham? With Corners that can cover when given smaller windows of time, it is now time to address ways to get after the QB. Looking back on the bigger losses of last year, it was our inability to get the QB to the ground that caused us to give up so much and achieve little.
  • Offensive Line – There’s age on the line at certain positions and the line has played above its capabilities long enough. Time to improve upon it and protect Matt Ryan further. Sam Baker is not becoming the franchise lineman that was expected. With better protection, Ryan can keep his eyes up and down field for that deep pass.
  • Running Back – Michael Turner is there, but he’s not really the “Burner”. He will pound away at you during the game. Same for Jason Snelling, but where’s the speed? Norwood has been plagued by injuries and will probably be gone before the season begins. The other undrafted selections on the team and practice squad are not the solution.
  • Wide Receiver – This one is only in my eyes due to the reading I’ve been doing leading up to the draft. All the talk is on Defensive End or a Wide Receiver because the Falcons need more speed on offense. Not sure on people discussing the replacement of Michael Jenkins. Jenkins is not a speed receiver. He has a niche job (blocking WR) to perform and he performs it very well. He also is a clutch player in several situations when in previous years Roddy White was unreliable. Are we then looking to give up on the recovery of Harry Douglas? Are we willing to waste a first round pick on a potential slot receiver? Not sure I like that cost when other needs are present.
  • Cornerback – I’ve also heard grumblings on this one as well. I’m going to dismiss this one early in the draft since so much money was spent last year on Robinson. Grimes has come into his own and would excel by a better defensive line that can get to the QB and cause bad decisions. Nickelback would make sense to anyone who watched the Packers/Falcons post season game. Again, maybe in the late rounds. We have a few potentials from last year’s draft that need some time to grow.
  • Tightend – Time to name the heir to Tony Gonzalez? The talk of retirement in the next year or two has made several name this position. With this not being a big year in the TE department, I’m going to leave this one with minor priority.

I’ll focus on the 27th pick as the later rounds are a crap shoot. The biggest hurdle with this pick is “Who will be available?” Our NFC South enemies will be looking for the pass rushing specialist as well so they might be possibly targeting the same players as we. Therefore, the DE we want and need might already be off the board. Names I’ve been seeing lately for the Falcons are:

  • Justin Houston, DE, University of Georgia – A UGA player. I should be thrilled, but I’m not. Sorry UGA fans. Houston is a great player but he will be switching positions somewhat here and I question the true power and speed for the type of player we need. I just don’t want another type of DE that we already have in Biermann or Davis.
  • Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa – This is probably my top pick if he’s available. Injuries in the senior season led to his fall on draft day, but he’s still got the other skills I covet for the position.
  • Da’Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson – Another great DE that’s falling due to injuries. Do we take due to some potential fears or do we have faith that we will bounce back from the injuries?
  • Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland – Well, I know he’s fast on returns, but I’m not looking for a return man. I want a speed WR. Smith nails that. But I just see a composite Douglas and Jenkins in Smith. Not a bad combination by any stretch, but not the force I want/need on the field at the moment.
  • Jon Baldwin, WR, Pittsburgh – I love the previous Pitt prospects (see Larry Fitzgerald), but again not a fan of the WR selection here unless its best available pick. The highlights I’ve seen make Baldwin more of a cross between White and Jenkins. We don’t need the same players we have. We need something better.
  • Kyle Rudolph, TE, Notre Dame – Here’s the heir to Tony G….maybe. Again, see my notes above on this pick. I’m just not feeling the “draft to fill replacement” on this team just yet. We are still drafting to build to win.

As for the other Draft expectations? Well…

  1. Who will be this year’s cryer? Part of me wants to say Nick Fairley just because I don’t like him that much and he’s fallen down the boards for various reasons (including character issues). I’m going to shoot for the stars and say Cam Newton. Everyone has the Panthers already drafting, signing, and starting him but I’m not sure if I completely believe it just yet. I don’t believe Newton is the star that a team should be built around (see Vince Young and Tim Tebow). If he drops from the Panthers, he could continue to fall and shatter his superstar view of himself.
  2. Biggest surprise? I’ll go with New England actually keeping its picks and making a selection in the first round. With no players to trade, Coach Bill might just keep what he has and make a selection.
  3. Will Oakland make another reach of a pick? I’d actually be surprised if they did as they seem to be heading in the right direction. However, the world’s oldest man is still leading Raider nation so they have that going for them.
  4. Will the NFL Lockout hurt the NFL Draft? Of course not. People will still watch and then we will hear reports about how the ratings were slightly down from last year but still about the same thus stating that we all just want football so get the deal completed today.
  5. And yes, I plan to make this two years in a row enjoying a Double Down during the draft.
Posted under Sports
Feb-13-2011

2012 Falcons Season Preview

Is it 2012 already? Ummm…..no. But with the way things are going in the Players vs Owners CBA discussions, I wish it was. It seems that there might not be a 2011 season…or much of one anyway. Therefore, I turn to the year 2012 and my expectations, predictions, and possible insights.

2011 Recap
Will there be a season? If so, full or half or quarter? No one really knows but here’s how I see a full season actually going. Currently, we are slated to have played the following teams (home teams in bold):

  • Green Bay
  • Chicago
  • Minnesota
  • Detroit
  • Jacksonville
  • Houston
  • Tennessee
  • Indianapolis
  • Philadelphia
  • Seattle
  • New Orleans
  • Carolina
  • Tampa Bay
  • New Orleans
  • Carolina
  • Tampa Bay

When I first look at this list, my first thought is “Crap, this is going to be tough.” Then my second thought is “We won the NFC South last year. Crap.” Say what you want but to me there are always absolutes in the NFL. They are the Madden curse does exist and the NFC South champ does not repeat the following year. New Orleans was hot on our trail in 2010 and 2011 wasn’t much different. Tampa Bay also surged ahead to show that the South is where the NFC powerhouses reside. Not within the NFC Least…I mean East.

Falcons end the season 9-7. It’s enough to make the playoffs as a wild card. It’s a let down for many but I’ll take it as Matt Ryan gets his first playoff win. Sadly the run ends in the second round. Four straight winning seasons, I’ll take it.

Now if there is no real season and replacement players are used, I’m looking for my replacement dream team to be led by D.J. Shockley and Herschel Walker. Like I said, dream team.

Nike Just Does It
2012 will bring new changes. Not just with player personnel. 2012 is the year that Nike will be taking over uniform operations from Reebok. Now many are fearful of this change, me included, and these fake mockups that were released previously as well as any of the Nike combats that college football has seen just makes it worse. But there is nothing we can do about it at this point, so let’s start with the positive thinking and the pro what-ifs.

Thanks to my buddy, Will, and his photoshop capabilities as well as Fraser Davidson with the original Pro Combat template (so I’m told), I present to you the new uniforms for the Atlanta Falcons 2012.

Nike 2010 Falcons Uniform Concept
Click for bigger image.

The images are great, but let me explain the concept completely.

  • Home – We have grown accustomed to the Falcons wearing red at home, but after the introduction of the recent throwbacks, I wanted to make a change to black. The socks and stripes from that throwback will stay as well as the white pants with a red belt. TV numbers (not shown in image) will be on top of the pads while the Falcons logo will be on the sides of the sleeves. I used Uniwatchblog’s idea of the compression sleeves as a nod to the old longer sleeved uniforms. I also chose to change the Falcons to the red helmet as there are so few red helmet teams and it just helps the logo pop so much more.
  • Away – The same thoughts for the Home jersey went into the Away one, except that I went with the white.
  • Secondary – Most hate a secondary uniform but I’m not one of them. If we have the option to go “bolder”, then let’s do it. Red was once the prominent look. Now it is a special occasion thought. I used the old red jersey as a point of reference. It is probably hard to see in the image but the red jersey also uses the gray pants.

Opponents
Now we get to the 2012 opponents. This list could change, but this is what we have as of today.

  • Dallas
  • Philadelphia
  • NY Giants
  • Washington
  • Oakland
  • Denver
  • San Diego
  • Kansas City
  • NFC West
  • NFC North
  • New Orleans
  • Carolina
  • Tampa Bay
  • New Orleans
  • Carolina
  • Tampa Bay

This list is no laughing matter. It could be just as bad as the 2011 schedule, but I’m going high and say we are thrown an easy schedule. We end the year at 14-2. The two losses are to the New Orleans Saints. It pains me to say that, but read on for the revenge.

Verdict & Expectations
14-2, eh? Well that’s just fine. In the playoffs we meet up with the hated Saints. Backs against the wall. All doubters in tow. Except that this time we plow through. We take the win that matters most and move on to the Superbowl. I don’t want to predict further as we are still so far away, but that’s where my mind stands today.

I have faith in this team that currently exists today and I see potential where so many others do not. Draft choices Weatherspoon, Jerry, Douglas, and Meier will all return from their injuries stronger than ever before. TD’s choices shine the way they were meant to shine as all signs of previous injury are nonexistent. The team has a whole becomes just that, a team. The previous heartaches in the playoffs bring the unit together and other teams in the NFL begin to fear those birds of the south.

The season starts in 573 days. Have your tickets ready?

Posted under Sports
Jan-17-2011

Falcons Season Report 2010

Well, I really wish I was writing this in February but that was just not the case this time as the year ended on a bad note following the terrible loss to the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional round game. With a final of 48 to 21, I’d say the Falcons nation’s eyes were quite wide. We were not just defeated. We were destroyed by a team that was better in almost every facet of the game (giving props to Eric Weems and special teams here). The Packers deserved the win and Aaron Rodgers played one of the most perfect games I’ve seen in playoff history in recent memory.

What Went Wrong?
The typical fan of the Atlanta birds might just say we suck or the Atlanta curse continues. I don’t see it that way. As I stated earlier in the season, we were/are a good team, not a great team. Throughout the season, we found ways to win games that past Falcons’ teams would not have. We played our ball: Penalties low, Turnovers low, Balanced attack. What happened on Saturday evening’s game? Penalties high, Turnovers high (and costly), Departure of Balanced Attack (due to score). Besides those issues, the defense was unable to dirty Aaron Rodger’s uniform. We had opportunities to do so, but were still unable to capitalize. When you don’t capitalize, someone like Rodgers will pick you apart. Again, props go to the Packers though I still don’t agree with the final field goal that much (there was only 1:56 left on the clock). Here’s hoping the Packers pull it out on the road to the Superbowl win as I do believe they are one of the more complete teams remaining.

What’s Next?
Well, after that final game, many will believe a complete overhaul is needed. Glaring holes were present but I believe in what Coach Smith and GM TD are doing. They’ve put together 3 back-to-back winning seasons and no one else has ever done that in Atlanta before with the Falcons. The team is still young and has plenty of potential for the next several years. However, changes will need to be made and I’d start of course on the defensive side. The year started with questions at defensive end, but Abraham showed that he still has something left in him as he recorded 13 sacks, but the remainder of the front line couldn’t put up anything as impressive. Abraham is aging poorly (injuries) and some new blood might be right around the corner.

Speaking of corner, the addition of Dunta Robinson was to improve the secondary and front line by giving the front line more time to get in the backfield and pick up coverage sacks. However, when you can’t get to the quarterback, then the coverage will break down because you can’t cover forever. On the other side of the field, I’ve heard the complaints about Brent Grimes. “He’s too small.” “Why is he even out there?” Really? Yeah, one of the touchdown’s Saturday night was over the top of him, but you could not have asked for any better coverage as he was in the perfect position to make the play. The receiver just made one heck of a grab.

My real pain in the secondary was due to a late season injury to Brian Williams, the nickelback. With him going out for the remainder of the season, Christopher Owens was asked to fill the role. The Packers knew this and they picked on him for a majority of the first half. He was unable to cover his man and either gave up big plays or blatant penalties.

The Draft and Free Agency
With that being said, the next steps are preparing for the draft and free agency. The front office of the Falcons believes in at least one major free agent signing a year and the remainder of the holes being filled in the draft. I’ll need to do more research on available free agents but possibilities could be DE, CB (less likely due to last year’s signing), or WR (stretch the field).

As far as the draft goes, I’ll write up a full preview as we get closer (possible selections, position breakdown), but here’s my quick thoughts as we sit with the 27th overall pick in the 2011 draft:

  • Defensive End – It was an area of interest last year and is still an area of interest
  • Center – How much longer can Todd McClure last? Let’s plan for the future now.
  • RB – Yes, I know we have Turner and, my favorite, Jason Snelling, but we are still missing a speed back. Norwood will more than likely not be returning.
  • LT – Sam Baker is just not becoming the franchise left tackle we thought he could be to protect Matt Ryan’s blind side.

Congratulations
Even with my disappointment in the final act of the season, I still say a very big congratulations to the 2010 Atlanta Falcons. You gave me some of the most thrilling games (see Saints Week 3, Ravens Week 9, and Green Bay Week 11) over the past five years and I look forward to many more. As a season ticket holder, I will gladly place my order for another year of cheering on my Falcons. Let’s Rise Up again but this time bigger and better than ever before!

Thanks again for everything.

Posted under Sports | Tagged as , , , , ,
Jan-13-2011

RISE UP!!!

Took me some time, but I believe that I have all the links ready to pump any Falcons fan up. Click them all if you have the time.

Can you feel it? It’s time.
It’s time for everyone of us.
If we get knocked down, we won’t just get up.
It’s time we all rise up.
When stars step up.
When a dome stands up.
When a city lights up.
We all rise up together.
When we come onto the field, we rise up!
From kickoff to the last play, we rise up.
This is our time Atlanta.
We’ve been knocking on the door.
Now its time to blow it up.
Tell me. What do Falcons do?
Rise Up!
What do Falcons do?
Falcons! Falcons!
RISE UP!!!

Posted under Sports
Jan-9-2011

Year in Review – 2010

As a year ends, its always fun to look back on the good, the bad, and…you know the rest. As this is my site, I can make up some fun, imaginary awards to hand out to individuals who will never show up to receive them. No fancy awards show here. Just text and images that will waste part of your time.

Best Film That I Saw

Winners     Inception       The King's Speech
Honorable
Mention(s)
    True Grit       The Fighter       The Social Network

Now I would love to hand the award to a single winner, but both Inception and The King’s Speech offered something wonderful to watch. Inception provided another new Christopher Nolan and another wild ride for all movie goers. Inception was the most recent film that pulled me back into the theaters only moments after finishing that first initial viewing. The last movie to do that was…no surprise here…The Dark Knight.

The King’s Speech offered something special in terms of performance and story. From Colin Firth to Geoffrey Rush, I feel that any one seeing this film would enjoy it. If you haven’t seen The King’s Speech, find the closest theater and head that way as soon as you can. This will be an award winner, even without my simple Best Of 2010 award.

Best Album That I Heard

Winner     All Day
Honorable
Mention(s)
    B.O.B. Presents - The Adventures of Bobby Ray

This competition was closer than I originally thought it would be when looking back on my 2010 albums.

All Day being free didn’t even factor into this award. The amazing work of the single man behind Girl Talk cannot be summed in words simply because you just don’t realize how good his compilations are until you sit through an entire album. I can tell you that there are certain combinations that I never even dreamed I would hear (“Imagine” by John Lennon with “##” by ## and “##” by ## with “##” by ##). This album may not have been as good as the previous, Feed The Animals, but it was still good enough to take top prize here.

I knew nothing of Atlanta’s own, B.O.B., until I was invited to a free concert at California’s Great America. I was blown away with B.O.B.’s stage presence as well as some of his songs that those around me “assured” I knew even though I had not listened to any Top 40 or R&B radio station in over a year. After the concert, I took to the internet with my always favorite, Napster, and took a listen at several song samplings. I loved what I heard and instantly picked up the CD. Too bad that Girl Talk had to release an album in the same year.

Best New TV Show That I Started Watching

Winner     How I Met Your Mother
Honorable
Mention(s)
    The Avengers – Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, The Big Bang Theory

Yes, I know I’m late to the party for How I Met Your Mother but thanks to the encouragement of others and some extra openings in my weekly lineup, I joined the bandwagon. The cast of friends is perfect. The humor is side splitting and solidifies many new items into the pop culture universe (Slapbet, The Bro Code [actual book now], etc.). I even enjoy the “mystery” of finding out who is Ted’s wife and the said mother of the show’s title. The choices are narrowing and I’m really hoping the answer is provided prior to the end of the show, whenever that may be.

Best Sporting Moment

Winner     Falcons Rise Up!
Honorable
Mention(s)
    New Orleans Saints losing to Seattle Seahawks in Wildcard NFC Playoff game (I just couldn’t pass on this opportunity to enjoy the Saints’ misery just a little more)

It doesn’t get any better than the entire Atlanta Falcons season. As a Falcons fan and season ticket owner, this season has been phenomenal. With an NFC South title in our grasp and playoffs only a week away, the season has looked brighter than many could have hoped for. More than anything else, I’m proud of the team that has been put together both in terms of physical play and all round character. Besides, when Samuel L. Jackson is telling your fans to RISE UP, you can’t do anything else but answer the call.

I would love to give any type of real honorable mention here but my other team of choice (Georgia Bulldogs) had a painful year and bulldog nation should just be happy the season has ended. Oh well, I guess I’ll just wallow in the misery that is the end to the New Orleans Saints’ season.

Best Personal Accomplishment

Winner     The Ring
Honorable
Mention(s)
    Athens Half Marathon

I’d be in real, possible loss of a limb trouble here if my engagement was not the clear winner here. Sure, my first half marathon was amazing but I only get one shot at asking that key question, “Will You Marry Me?’, and have the answer be an excitingly quick “Yes.” I’ve told the story before here on the site as well as countless times in person, but I smile more and more each time I think of my fiance and the life we will soon be starting in the coming year.

What’s Up in 2011?
The coming year will hopefully hold many new possibilities for me. I would assume that the wedding will be the biggest event for me this year and will take up much of my time (and finances). However, I know that this will not be the only event for me this year and those that I don’t foresee now will probably be just as good as those that are already planned.

Here’s to 2011 and a happy new year.

Posted under Movies, Music, Other, Sports, TV
Nov-19-2010

My Android Apps

I keep getting asked what apps do I enjoy on my HTC Droid Eris. Well, I guess the best way to do that is just use AppBrain.

Anyone have some other cool suggestions of apps to download?

Note: For those interested, do not buy the HTC Droid Eris if you are looking at getting an Android phone. I honestly love it, but HTC and Verizon do not so it has stopped receiving the latest Android updates and is discontinued by Big Red. If you are looking to get an Android, go after one of the flagship phones so that you can be certain to receive the latest updates for at least a year.

Posted under Games, Heroes, Internet, Linux, Movies, Music, Sports | Tagged as , , ,
Nov-10-2010

Falcons Midseason Report

Falcons Throwbacks

There’s no hiding my love for the Atlanta Falcons. With a team that sits at the top of its division and currently ranks 3rd in ESPN’s Power Rankings (yes, they are meaningless), I have no reason but to smile. However, the season is long from over and a night before the third biggest game of the season (New Orleans, Tampa, and now Baltimore), I thought it might be nice to give my thoughts on the season thus far.

When the started season with a loss to the 3rd QB led Steelers, I was left shocked and wondering how the remainder of the season was going to turn out. I mean, if you can’t beat an NFL team who is playing their backup to a backup QB then what’s the point of moving on. But, myself and the team gathered our collective selves together and moved forward game by game. Now on the steps of Week 10 of the schedule, the Falcons stand at 6-2.

The Falcons defense has played well. The offense has played well. The special teams have played well. They just really haven’t played well collectively on the same day. Each facet to the game has showed up when needed in order to take up any slack that the former might have left out in the open for another team to take hold of. Many analysts and football lovers will say my team is boring. That they are only good. Not great. I’d actually have to agree with them, but that’s the actual plus instead of the negative. We are boring to watch if you are not a real Falcons fan (except for the New Orleans game which was the greatest game of the year), but its our style that works and it is a style that is very familiar to many Steelers fans. We run the ball, then we throw. Not the other way around. Our offense is built on Turner first, and White / Gonzalez / Jenkins / Ryan second.

With that football philosophy, I feel that we can beat any other team in the league. My best example of this is the New Orleans game where those Dirty Birds crafted a 20 play drive that took 10:39 off the clock. That’s 10 minutes of play that Drew Brees was unable to step onto the field to bring his team back. If you can keep the opponent’s offense off the field, then 9 times out of 10 you’ll win the game. The Falcons lead the league in drives of five minutes or longer. Currently they sit at a Time of Possession per game of 33:05. If a game is 60 minutes, well you do the math.

So what am I saying here? I’m saying the Falcons are better than most might give them credit for but they are not great. They do have the talent, drive, and coaching to go the distance though. Yes, I mean THE DISTANCE. The Superbowl for those not following along at home. The first real step in that direction is locking up the remainder of the season in order to score home field advantage. I don’t want it because of my season tickets (yes, I live in SF and still have season tickets). I want it because Matt Ryan is 17-1 in the Georgia Dome when starting. That’s a REAL home field advantage. If you still think I’m full of it in my expectations, see what John Clayton, respected NFL journalist / analyst thinks.

Now that I have the attention of all Dirty Bird hopefuls, I want to look at you, Mr. Bandwagon Jumper. I’m ok if you hop on now and I’m even going to help you not seem so much like a bandwagon jumper. Here’s your quick guide to looking like you’ve always belonged with the Falcons.

  • When asked about last years’s season, don’t state it was failure. The Falcons finished the season at 9-6 and missed the playoffs. Why is this not a failure? Because they broke the 42 year curse of never having back to back winning seasons. Think about that for a second. In 42 years, nothing. Even with a year of going to the Superbowl and another going to the NFC Championship game, no back to back winning seasons. Therefore, I say to you it was a success for the entire organization to bring what this franchise has been lacking, consistency.
  • Roddy White was perfect up until late in the Tampa Bay game in terms of catches thrown his way. He had not dropped a single pass all season. This was the same WR that only a few years back I stated was overpaid with his new contract and would not be the person I want the ball thrown to when the game is on the line. Well now that’s a different story now isn’t it.
  • Name Dropper – Brent Grimes. Brent Grimes would be the number one cornerback in the league if he was at least 3-4 inches taller. He’s listed at 5’10 but he is not 5’10. Led the team last year with 6 INTS and this (greatest play I’ve ever seen). He’s a little guy from a little college with little expectations of him.
  • Name Dropper – Coy Wire. Coy Wire? Well he’s a veteran LB that you only see in certain packages. Mainly goal line stands and special teams. He’s a ball hawk. If he’s on the field, he’ll find the ball and soon the ball will find itself in his hands. New Orleans game last year, onside kick recovery. Chicago Bears last year (or year before) late game strip.
  • Name Dropper – Kroy Bierman. Kroy Bierman, defensive end. Only other thing is that he is athletic and well who doesn’t love yelling out BIERMAN (pronounced BEERMAN).
  • Name Dropper – Ovie Mughelli. This man is pure beast. I’m always high on a fullback and Ovie is no exception. If opposing defenses lose sight of him, well then that just means that Michael Turner is going to go on a nice little 70 yard stroll along the open field.
  • Final and best stat of all is that under Mike Smith, I am undefeated in games attended. That’s 10+ home games and one road game.

Now that the positives are out of the way, I’ll end with the only negative that I have. The team has an “official”, “unofficial” song this season. Atlanta’s own Sevendust recorded “Falcons On Top”.

Posted under Sports | Tagged as , , , ,