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| 1 | SUNDAY
SEPTEMBER 10 | 1:00p (ET) | @CAR | | 2 | SUNDAY
SEPTEMBER 17 | 1:00p (ET) | TAM | | 3 | MONDAY
SEPTEMBER 25 | 8:30p (ET) | @NOR | | 4 | SUNDAY
OCTOBER 1 | 1:00p (ET) | ARI | | 5 | BYE WEEK | | 6 | SUNDAY
OCTOBER 15 | 1:00p (ET) | NYG | | 7 | SUNDAY
OCTOBER 22 | 1:00p (ET) | PIT | | 8 | SUNDAY
OCTOBER 29 | 1:00p (ET) | @CIN | | 9 | SUNDAY
NOVEMBER 5 | 1:00p (ET) | @DET | | 10 | SUNDAY
NOVEMBER 12 | 1:00p (ET) | CLE | | 11 | SUNDAY
NOVEMBER 19 | 1:00p (ET) | @BAL | | 12 | SUNDAY
NOVEMBER 26 | 1:00p (ET) | NOR | | 13 | SUNDAY
DECEMBER 3 | 1:00p (ET) | @WAS | | 14 | SUNDAY
DECEMBER 10 | 1:00p (ET) | @TAM | | 15 | SATURDAY
DECEMBER 16 | 8:00p (ET) | DAL | | 16 | SUNDAY
DECEMBER 24 | 1:00p (ET) | CAR | | 17 | SUNDAY
DECEMBER 31 | 1:00p (ET) | @PHI | |
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WR Brian Finneran is out for the season with a knee injury, hurting an already weak passing attack. Ed Hartwell had knee surgery and will likely miss at least the first game. He missed 11 games last season, and the run defense collapsed without him. Vick is always susceptible to injury, since he scrambles a lot and is pretty small for a QB. They haven't traded Schaub for that reason. Dunn is a very small RB as well, and at 31 years old he could start to decline very soon. Abraham played in all 16 games last season, but he missed 13 games in the two seasons before that.
Fantasy Impact: Fantasy owners must be very careful with Vick, since he's just one hit away from the sideline. Schaub becomes a hot pickup if he is forced in. Finneran’s catches are likely to be spread out among the young WRs. Even with the addition of DT Jackson, the run defense could be in trouble with Hartwell now a constant injury risk. |
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Strategy: With Vick at the helm, it’s no surprise that the Falcons run more than pass, with well over 500 runs each of the past two seasons. They have been no.1 in rushing each of those years, averaging nearly 160 yards/game. Dunn handles the bulk of the carries, while Norwood should also see some touches, and Vick runs when he wants to. The coaches have many specific run plays for Vick. When passing, Vick throws mostly to Crumpler and Dunn, if he throws at all.
Fantasy Impact: It will take time for Vick to become a good passer, until then he is a decent option as a second QB. Crumpler can be depended on by fantasy owners. Dunn is a solid fantasy RB in any league. |
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Strength: The Falcons strength is the running game. Dunn and Vick are both capable rushers. They are speedsters who can outrun defenders and make them miss. FB Justin Griffith also helps with his excellent blocking. The Falcons have finished no.1 in rushing the past two years.
Fantasy Impact: The Falcons will continue to be a good source of rushing yards. Dunn's value should increase greatly if he gets the goal line touches that Duckett used to. However, if that role goes to another player, he is still a good fantasy option. |
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Weakness: The Falcons weakness is the passing game. Vick has not yet developed into a great passer, pulling the ball down and running too much, and he gets no help from the receiving core. Starters Jenkins and White are very young and inexperienced. Finneran is tall and has the best hands, but he was lost for the season with a torn ACL. The addition of the speedy Lelie will help fill the void left by Finneran’s injury, but he is the 3rd receiver in a run happy system. Vick doesn't have much confidence in any pass catcher beyond Crumpler, though he has worked with the WRs a lot in the off season.
Fantasy Impact: Unless Vick improves, no receiver will be worth much in fantasy leagues. Draft Crumpler as a starter, but that's it. |
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Strategy: The Falcons rely on a 4-3, using their defensive line to generate pressure. While they can rush the passer, they are undersized versus the run, forcing the team to rely on their LBs to defend the run. Their CBs play both man-to-man and zone, but are forced to cover by themselves a lot because of poor safety play. That should change with the additions at the position.
Fantasy Impact: The team struggled mightily against the run after losing MLB Edgerton Hartwell to injury. Expect them to shore up versus the run, while the improved pass rush helps the secondary to make plays. |
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Strength: The Falcons possesses a great defensive line. DE Patrick Kerney and DT Rod Coleman are great at getting to the QB, and they will be boosted by new teammates John Abraham, who recorded 10 sacks with the Jets last season, and Grady Jackson, a monstrous NT who can stop the run. They have some playmaking ability at LB and CB with Keith Brooking and DeAngelo Hall, and they are joined by Ed Hartwell and rookie Jimmy Williams.
Fantasy Impact: Abraham will help this D-line generate a lot of sacks, while Jackson will solidify the run defense that was so poor last season. The secondary should improve with the new safeties as well as improvement from Hall. |
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Weakness: Losing Hartwell dropped this team to 27th in rush defense, and he is injured yet again. The LB core is weak behind Hartwell and Brooking, as Demorrio Williams struggled last year and the backups are mostly inexperienced. CB Jason Webster is picked on repeatedly, and the safeties performed poorly last year and were replaced.
Fantasy Impact: The return of Hartwell would help the run defense, unfortunately he is down again. If the CB opposite Hall does not perform well, the defense will give up a lot of passing yards and deflate the IDP value of Hall. |
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Bucs QB Garcia Out Against Falcons - 12/14/2008
Source: AP Impacts: Jeff Garcia, Brian Griese, Luke McCown QB Jeff Garcia won't play today against the Falcons. In his place, Brian Griese will get the start. It isn't out of the question that Luke McCown will get some snaps too. Fantasy Impact: I don't consider either Griese or McCown to be decent fantasy option at this point. | | | WR Horn Still Wants Trade - 07/28/2008
Source: Atlanta Journal Constitution Impacts: Joe Horn WR Joe Horn still wants a trade from the Falcons, though he has reported to camp and is ready to go. He admittedly hasn't studied the playbook though, as he expected to be dealt. Fantasy Impact: Horn is no longer worthy of a starting spot in most leagues, but could be a useful backup if he gets out of Atlanta. | | | Falcons: We can't give Joe Horn away - 07/18/2008
Source: Atlanta Journal Constitution Impacts: Joe Horn, Terry Glenn The Falcons can't find anyone that's interested in disgruntled WR Joe Horn. The Cowboys could find him as a logical replacement if WR Terry Glenn isn't back, but so far there have been no discussions. Fantasy Impact: He may be worth considering if he ends up in Dallas, but probably not even then. | | | Vick says sore groin has improved - 12/20/2006
Source: National Football League News Wire Impacts: Michael Vick Michael Vick says his sore groin has
improved, even though he didn't test the injury as he took a
reduced role in Wednesday's practice.
Vick had to leave late in the Atlanta Falcons' loss to Dallas on
Saturday night due to the injury. He was listed as probable for
Sunday's game against Carolina and reported the sore groin "feels
better."
"I just wanted to take a day off and make sure when I came back
to practice I'd be able to practice at 100 percent and feel good
about it," Vick said. "I'm just making sure I don't do anything
to reinjure it and making sure the pain goes away on its own."
After Saturday night's game, Vick said he "felt a pain I have
never felt before."
Backup Matt Schaub took the majority of the snaps with the
first-team offense as he prepares for what could be his first start
since Oct. 9, 2005 against New England. Vick, who has never started
more than 15 games in a season, has made every start in 2006.
"As far as going a long period of time without starting, it
doesn't help you," Schaub said. "You've just got to be focused
and stay sharp in practice.
"I think if anything you're still fresh. You haven't taken the
beating and you've got your routine down during the week as far as
your method of preparation."
Schaub attempted only one pass this season before going 3-for-5
for 33 yards when playing behind Vick in the 38-28 loss to Dallas.
| | | Vick in treatment; Abraham has thumb surgery - 12/19/2006
Source: National Football League News Wire Impacts: Michael Vick Atlanta Falcons coach Jim Mora
believes quarterback Michael Vick and defensive end John Abraham
will start Sunday against the Carolina Panthers even though both
players have significant injuries.
Abraham underwent surgery Monday to have a pin placed in his
left thumb after he tore ligaments in a loss to the Dallas Cowboys.
Mora said Abraham will wear a cast and start against Carolina.
Vick, who limped off the field with a groin injury on the
Falcons' final possession Saturday night, continues to undergo
treatment. Matt Schaub will start if Vick can't.
"Our guys are resilient," Mora said. "They bounce back. They
get refocused. I am excited to get back to work on Wednesday."
Atlanta (7-7) has lost three straight home games for the first
time since Dan Reeves' final season in 2003. The Panthers (6-8)
dropped their fourth consecutive game last week with an
embarrassing performance against Pittsburgh.
Neither team has played well in NFC games. In their last seven
matchups with conference opponents, the Falcons have four losses
and Carolina five.
Before 2005, Atlanta had beaten the Panthers in eight of nine
tries, but Carolina swept the division series last season. The
Falcons won the season-opener in Charlotte 20-6 behind Vick and
Abraham.
Vick improved his career record to 6-2 against the Panthers by
completing 10 of 22 passes for 140 yards and two touchdowns. He
also ran seven times for 48 yards.
Abraham earned his first NFC defensive player of the week honor
with five solo tackles, two sacks for minus-20 yards, two forced
fumbles and a pass breakup. Unfortunately, he strained a groin
muscle late in the fourth quarter and played just one of the next
eight games -- a stretch during which he had abdominal surgery.
| | | Vick's status uncertain for Carolina - 12/18/2006
Source: National Football League News Wire Impacts: Michael Vick Falcons quarterback Michael Vick, who injured his
groin in the second half and left the game on the final drive of a
38-28 loss to the Dallas Cowboys, reported to team headquarters for
treatment on Sunday.
Falcons spokesman Reggie Roberts had no information regarding
Vick's status for this weekend, when Atlanta (7-7) hosts the
Carolina Panthers (6-8).
Atlanta enters Week 16 trailing the New York Giants (7-7) for
the sixth and final NFC playoff spot. New York would win a
tiebreaker over the Falcons after beating Atlanta earlier this
season at the Georgia Dome.
Vick improved to 6-2 in his career against the Panthers after
opening the season with a win at Carolina.
Much of Vick's NFL success, however, begins with his ability to
avoid defensive pressure by running and throwing on the run, so a
groin injury would seem to limit him significantly.
"We'll have to wait and see," Vick said Saturday night. "I
felt a pain I have never felt before. It was a sharp pain."
Vick, who broke Bobby Douglass' single-season NFL record for
rushing by a quarterback, needs 10 yards to become the first player
at his position to run for 1,000 in a season.
Against the Cowboys, Vick threw four touchdown passes and an
interception that DeMarcus Ware returned for a 41-yard score in the
second quarter.
The Falcons' No. 2 quarterback, Matt Schaub, completed three of
five passes for 33 yards. Schaub took three snaps with Vick lined
up at running back, but Dallas safety Patrick Watkins intercepted
his final attempt, a 48-yarder in the end zone.
Vick accounted for 293 yards of total offense. He was 16-for-24
passing for 237 yards. | | | Vick breaks 34-year-old record for rushing yards by a quarterback - 12/17/2006
Source: National Football League News Wire Impacts: Michael Vick Michael Vick broke a 34-year-old record and can
set his sights on another milestone -- 1,000 yards.
The Atlanta Falcons' one-of-a-kind player eclipsed Bobby
Douglass' season record for most rushing yards by a quarterback in
Saturday night's 38-28 loss to the Dallas Cowboys.
Vick broke off an 11-yard run with 10.5 minutes left to go past
Douglass, who ran for 968 yards with the Chicago Bears in 1972.
Vick wound up with 990 yards, though he hurt his groin in the
second half and finished the game on the bench.
"It means a lot," Vick said. "It's something I can tell my
kids. When they're sitting around talking football with their
classmates, my son and daughter will be able to say, 'This is what
my daddy accomplished.' It means more than anything. I'm
disappointed we didn't get the win, but it's a milestone."
Vick set the record in the Falcons' 14th game -- the same number
of games that were played during Douglass' era. It came on the same
night that Atlanta teammate Morten Andersen became the leading
scorer in NFL history, passing Gary Anderson.
Vick also tied a career high with four touchdown passes. He
passed for 237 yards and rushed for 56 on eight carries.
With two games remaining, Vick will almost certainly become the
first quarterback to run for 1,000 yards in a season, which is only
appropriate because he's already viewed as the greatest runner to
ever play his position.
But he did seem a bit troubled about his groin, which began
hurting early in the third quarter.
"I felt a pain that I have never felt before," Vick said. "It
was a sharp pain. I'm going to see the doctors right now and see
what they have to say. I'll get treatment in the morning and the
rest of the week."
Despite the loss, the Falcons (7-7) are still clinging to hope
in the NFC wild-card race. But they face a must-win situation
against Carolina next weekend.
"If push comes to shove," Vick said, "I'll be out there."
Vick already holds five other NFL quarterback rushing records,
including most yards in a game (173 against Minnesota in 2002) and
most 100-yard games in a career (eight).
| | | Cowboys overcome Falcons' records 38-28 - 12/17/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Terrell Owens, Tony Romo, Marion Barber, Julius Jones, Terry Glenn Terrell Owens was spitting mad, and he made the Atlanta Falcons pay in a big way.
Owens hauled in a couple of touchdown passes, leading the Dallas Cowboys to a playoff-bolstering 38-28 victory against Atlanta and getting back at Falcons nemesis DeAngelo Hall along the way.
But, T.O. being T.O., there had to be some controversy, too.
Afterward, Hall said that Owens spit in his face when the Falcons cornerback came out jawing on the very first play.
"I lost all respect for the guy," Hall said. "We were kind of walking face to face, walking back to the huddle, and he just hauled off and spit in my face."
It was that kind of night for the Falcons. While Michael Vick and Morten Andersen set NFL records, their team took a devastating loss in NFC wild-card race after back-to-back victories and overcoming an early 14-0 deficit to the Cowboys.
Dallas (9-5) bounced back from a 42-17 home loss to New Orleans and protected its NFC East lead.
"It was as big a game as we've had this year," quarterback Tony Romo said. "I think we are trailing everybody when it comes to tiebreakers. We knew the importance of this one coming in."
Marion Barber clinched it for the Cowboys, scoring on two punishing runs after the Falcons went ahead.
Owens, who was kept out of the end zone by Hall when the two faced off in Week 1 of the 2005 season, took care of that blemish. Owens made a 7-yard touchdown reception with a brilliant one-handed catch, then blew past Hall to haul in a 51-yarder.
T.O. toasted both scores with the same gesture. He faced the crowd with his arms outstretched -- that's the 'T' -- then clasped his hands in a circle above his head -- that's an 'O.'
But what about spitting at Hall?
"I got frustrated and I apologize for that," Owens told NFL Network. "It was a situation where he kept bugging me and getting in my face. He just kept getting in my face."
Vick tied a career high with four touchdown passes and eclipsed Bobby Douglass' 34-year-old record for most rushing yards in a season by a quarterback. He has 990 yards, breaking Douglass' mark of 968 with the 1972 Chicago Bears.
"It means a lot. It's everything I've worked for in my career," Vick said. "I'm disappointed that we didn't get the win, but it's a milestone."
Andersen, meanwhile, became the leading scorer in NFL history. The 46-year-old kicker booted four extra points, giving him 2,437 points for his career and breaking Gary Anderson's mark of 2,434.
It wasn't enough to hold off the Cowboys. Barber put them ahead for good on a 9-yard run with 2½ minutes left in the third quarter, leaving Chris Crocker sprawled on the turf.
Barber added a 3-yard TD run with 2:18 remaining to clinch the victory.
"We had to regroup," Owens said. "We showed some character when we came back."
Romo, coming off his worst game since taking over the starting job, completed 22 of 29 for 278 yards. He spread it around -- Terry Glenn had five receptions for 96 yards, Owens caught five for 69 yards and Jason Witten pulled in five passes for 56 yards.
| | | This time Griffith rushes Falcons to victory - 12/10/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Michael Vick, Alge Crumpler, Carnell Williams, Warrick Dunn Justin Griffith makes a living blocking for Michael Vick, Warrick Dunn and Jerious Norwood.
Turns out the Atlanta fullback is a capable runner, too.
The NFL's top rushing team lost Dunn and Norwood within a span of five plays in the third quarter, but the seldom-used Griffith came on to finish a 71-yard drive with a 21-yard touchdown burst, helping the Falcons beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 17-6.
"He's a dependable guy in a lot of areas -- running the football, pass protection, leading for Warrick and Jerious, leading for Michael on a lot of the keepers, and it was good to see him get a chance to get in the end zone," Atlanta coach Jim Mora said.
Six plays after Dunn limped off the field with a left calf injury and just two snaps after replacing Norwood, who left with a sore right knee, Griffith rumbled through a hole in the middle of the line untouched. He made a nifty move on safety Will Allen to complete his first career TD run.
The juke froze Allen in his tracks, and the 232-pound Griffith cut left to the end zone.
"It's one of those things that we practice every day. ... Get into the guy's area, you give him a head fake. They're going to miss you every time," Griffith said. "You've got to break down, give him the tippy toes, then go on in."
Atlanta's defense did its part, too, forcing two turnovers to set up 10 points, including Demorrio Williams' 54-yard fumble return for a touchdown. That wiped out a 6-0 lead Tampa Bay took with help from Falcons miscues.
Atlanta (7-6) has won two straight after losing four in a row and is still in the playoff hunt. Tampa Bay (3-10), which has not scored a touchdown in 11 quarters, was eliminated from playoff contention.
| | | Falcons run all over 'Skins for 24-14 win - 12/04/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Michael Vick, Alge Crumpler, Jason Campbell, Ladell Betts, Peerless Price The big defensive lineman rumbled 41 yards until he ran out of gas. The rookie running back had plenty of fuel -- enough to embarrass a would-be tackler near the end of a 69-yard touchdown run.
No one will ever confuse the running styles of defensive end Chauncey Davis and rookie running back Jerious Norwood, but each made the type of big play a team needs when it's mired in a four-game losing skid.
Add in a touch of the psychological -- as in a players-only "pep rally" called by a respected veteran -- and the Atlanta Falcons had enough for a 24-14 comeback victory over the Washington Redskins.
"Me, of all people," said Davis, whose first career interception was also the team's first in seven games. "I haven't had a run like that in so long. I was trying to hold on. That's all we've been looking for, is someone to make the big play."
The Falcons (6-6), who had fallen below .500 for first time in Jim Mora's three seasons as coach, rallied from a 14-0 first-quarter deficit to get back in the serious hunt for a playoff berth. The Redskins (4-8) have lost three of four, having squandered the momentum they gained from last week's back-to-basics victory over Carolina.
"We definitely needed that pep rally last night," said safety Lawyer Milloy, who called Atlanta's players-only meeting. "We probably should have had it a couple of weeks ago, but it's not too late. We're just blessed that the league is so equal competitively that we still have a shot. It was at a point where the players of this team, the leaders of this team, needed to take some ownership.
"The coaches can't catch the ball for you. The coaches can't tell you to stay deep when you have a deep zone. That was the premise of the conversation."
Milloy backed up his words by making the hit that disrupted Jason Campbell's throw as the Redskins were driving deep in Atlanta territory in the third quarter with a 14-10 lead. The ball floated to Davis, whose return set up the 22-yard touchdown pass from Michael Vick to Michael Jenkins that put the Falcons ahead for good.
Norwood sealed the win in the fourth quarter with his long scamper in which he broke a tackle and left cornerback Carlos Rogers spinning in both directions over the final 10 yards. It was Norwood's second touchdown run -- the other was a 78-yard score vs. Arizona.
"You need your playmakers to make plays, your superstars to be superstars," coach Jim Mora said.
| | | Saints down Falcons; sweep season series - 11/27/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Michael Vick, Alge Crumpler, Warrick Dunn, Drew Brees, Reggie Bush Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints did just fine without their top receiver.
The Atlanta Falcons are still looking for someone who can catch the ball.
Brees went deep on the third play of game to Marques Colston 's backup, delivered another long touchdown on a desperation throw at the end of the first half and put up another 300-yard performance in Sunday's 31-13 victory.
Coming in with three losses in four games, the Saints (7-4) stunned the Falcons right away with a 76-yard touchdown pass to Devery Henderson, who started in place of the injured Colston.
"It was a great way to start the game," said Brees, who completed 21-of-30 for 349 yards -- his fifth straight game eclipsing 300 yards.
The Saints finished off the first half with another big play. Brees threw it up toward the end zone, and Terrance Copper managed to haul in a 48-yard TD with three defenders around him.
"I just jumped up and tried to catch it," Copper said. "It was a good throw by Drew. It just fell in my hands."
As for the Falcons, they hardly caught anything in their fourth straight setback, which knocked them below .500 for the first time in Jim Mora's three seasons as coach.
Not even a 166-yard rushing performance by Michael Vick could bail out the Falcons (5-6), who dropped at least five passes. As he walked off the field, getting booed by the few fans who remained, Vick made an obscene gesture.
"We've just got to keep fighting," he said. "There's a lot of guys in that locker room who've never been in this situation."
Saints RB Deuce McAllister ran for two TDs to help send Atlanta to its fourth straight loss.
Saints RB Deuce McAllister ran for two TDs to help send Atlanta to its fourth straight loss.
The Falcons' signature play came early in the fourth quarter, when Roddy White let the ball slip from his hands at the New Orleans 10 with no one around him after Atlanta had closed to 21-13.
Coach Jim Mora fell to his knees in disbelief. Tight end Alge Crumpler held up his arms and looked toward the roof of the Georgia Dome.
"I just turned up and tried to run with the ball I caught it," White said. "I took my eyes off it."
The Saints had no such trouble.
Leading 14-6, New Orleans had the ball at the Atlanta 48 with 7 seconds remaining. Brees dropped back and let go a towering pass toward the end zone, the sort of desperation throw that is usually knocked down. | | | Falcons rally around Vick after Mora's father says QB is a 'coach killer' - 11/23/2006
Source: National Football League News Wire Impacts: Michael Vick The Atlanta Falcons closed ranks
around embattled quarterback Michael Vick, who was clearly stunned
by reports that Jim Mora's father referred to No. 7 as a "coach
killer."
Vick said Wednesday that he shut off his cell phone because he
was getting so many calls about comments made by Mora's father, a
former NFL coach himself who shares the same name with his son.
"Honestly, I don't even know what to say," Vick said. "I
think it was inappropriate. But, hey, when you're commentating, I
guess you've got a right to say what you want to say. I just keep
playing football. At the same time, it's crazy."
Earlier this week, during his show on Fox Sports Radio, the
elder Mora agreed with the co-host's description of Vick as a
"coach killer."
"It worries me a little bit because my son is the head coach
down there," Mora added. "But he's a great athlete, my son likes
him a lot, he's a good kid. But he's not a passer. And you need a
passer at quarterback to be successful consistently in the National
Football League. And he ain't getting it done in that category."
The younger Mora said he's spoken with his father about the
statement -- "he regrets it" -- and went to great lengths to show
that he's still got faith in his quarterback, despite a three-game
losing streak that has severely hurt the Falcons' playoff hopes.
"I'm a huge Mike Vick fan. I always have been," the coach
said. "I love the guy. He's a great player and I think he's a
better person. I don't care what anybody says about Mike. If I was
starting a franchise and I could pick one guy all-time, I would
pick Mike Vick. That's how I feel about it."
But Vick hasn't performed like a franchise player over the last
three weeks, completing less than 50 percent of his throws (44 of
93) with more interceptions (four) than touchdowns (three). In
addition, he's lost two crucial fumbles without being hit by the
defense -- the first leading to a touchdown in a loss to Detroit,
the second ruining hopes of pulling off a comeback win against
Cleveland.
| | | Ravens' Ray Lewis not likely to play against Falcons - 11/16/2006
Source: National Football League News Wire Impacts: Ray Lewis Baltimore Ravens middle linebacker Ray
Lewis underwent a minor surgical procedure Thursday to have a
pocket of blood drained from his swollen back, and is unlikely to
play in Sunday's game against the Atlanta Falcons.
However, the seven-time All-Pro wasn't immediately ruled out and
is expected to remain listed as questionable on the injury report.
Lewis severely bruised his back during a Nov. 5 game against
Cincinnati when he collided with teammate Ed Reed's knee.
Team officials were hopeful Thursday the outpatient surgery will
allow Lewis to return soon, but they weren't optimistic about him
playing against Atlanta.
"I don't know how much of a difference it (the surgical
procedure) will make for this week, but it's my understanding that
it will make a huge difference for him and we'll see how he is at
the end of the week," Ravens coach Brian Billick said. "He's made
real progress, I think."
Meanwhile, the Ravens (7-2) are preparing versatile outside
linebacker/defensive end Jarret Johnson (6-foot-3, 270 pounds) to
start at inside linebacker with former practice squad member Dennis
Haley filling in on obvious passing downs. Starting inside
linebacker Bart Scott will move over to play Lewis' spot, with
Johnson occupying Scott's normal position. | | | Falcons sign S Schulters, CB Johnson - 11/15/2006
Source: National Football League News Wire Impacts: John Abraham The injury-plagued Atlanta Falcons
signed safety Lance Schulters and cornerback Derrick Johnson on
Tuesday.
Running back Marlion Jackson and safety Nick Turnbull were
reassigned to the practice squad after playing in Sunday's loss to
Cleveland. Fullback Kevin Dudley was released from the practice
squad.
Schulters, a ninth-year veteran who started 16 games for Miami
last season, signed with the Falcons last week but had to be
released a couple of days later after injuries to cornerbacks Jason
Webster and Jimmy Williams forced the activation of Turnbull.
Johnson, a sixth-round pick by San Francisco in 2005, has five
career starts. He was released by the 49ers before the start of
this season and played briefly with Houston before being let go
again.
The Falcons' defense has been hit hard by injuries. Three
starters -- defensive end John Abraham, linebacker Ed Hartwell and
Webster -- sat out Sunday's game. Patrick Kerney, the other starting
end, was lost for the season with a chest injury against the
Browns. Nickel back Kevin Mathis is also out for the year after
injuring his neck the previous week. | | | Vick's miscues lead to 17-13 Browns win - 11/12/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Michael Vick, Alge Crumpler, Warrick Dunn, Braylon Edwards, Charlie Frye Michael Vick sat on the Georgia Dome turf, looking around in disbelief while the boos came at him from all directions.
He lost the ball, his helmet -- and the game.
Vick threw two interceptions and had a careless fumble with 2:18 remaining, allowing the Cleveland Browns to escape with a 17-13 victory over the Atlanta Falcons.
For the second week in a row, the Falcons (5-4) lost to one of the NFL's worst teams. Again, Vick took the brunt of the blame, turning a once-promising season into an increasingly desperate situation -- especially with a rash of injuries on defense.
"I take sole responsibility on the offensive side," he said, shaking his head. "It hurts."
Atlanta was coming off a 30-14 loss at Detroit, only the second win of the year for the Lions. The Browns (3-6) had dropped three of four before they knocked off the Falcons in front of 70,000 stunned fans at the Georgia Dome.
Vick completed only 16 of 40 passes for 197 yards, but had the Falcons in position to pull off a comeback with a 55-yard pass to Roddy White, who made a tumbling catch at the Cleveland 17.
The Falcons quarterback took off running on the next play, appearing to get another first down, but a holding penalty on Eric Beverly negated the play. | | | Lions roar past Falcons 30-14 - 11/06/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Jon Kitna, Michael Vick, Alge Crumpler, Roy Williams (WR), Warrick Dunn Michael Vick came back down to earth and the Detroit Lions took advantage of his ordinary day.
Detroit turned Vick's two first-half turnovers into touchdowns and Roy Williams had a sensational game, highlighted by a 60-yard TD early in the fourth quarter, in the Lions' 30-14 victory over the Atlanta Falcons.
"I guess we had a little kryptonite for him," Detroit cornerback Fernando Bryant said. "The whole key is to stay disciplined, keeping lanes and contain, and that's what we did with him."
The Lions pulled off the feat without three starters on the defensive line, including Shaun Rogers.
Atlanta's electric quarterback threw for seven TDs and averaged 262 yards passing in the previous two games, both victories, but quickly found out it would not be his day in Detroit.
He fumbled on the Falcons' first drive, an unforced error as he held the ball like a loaf of bread, and threw an interception from deep in his end in the second quarter. Both led to Kevin Jones ' TD runs.
| | | Vick tosses another win, 29-27 over Cincy - 10/29/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Michael Vick, Anton Palepoi, Chad Johnson, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Alge Crumpler Michael Vick has found a balance. His passer rating is just as impressive as his 40-yard dash these days.
Vick threw three more touchdown passes, leading the Atlanta Falcons to a 29-27 victory over a Cincinnati Bengals team that had never seen anything quite like the show he put on.
Few teams have.
The mercurial quarterback has led the Falcons (5-2) to consecutive wins over the defending Super Bowl champion Steelers and the defending AFC North champion Bengals by throwing the ball. Vick has thrown seven touchdown passes in the last two games, proving his point.
"I feel I just need the opportunity to throw the ball," said Vick, whose passer rating of 140.6 was the second highest of his career. "Just give me the chance to do it. I've felt like all along, this is what I could do."
No matter what they did, the Bengals (4-3) were helpless to run him down or shut him down.
| | | Falcons pull out wild 41-38 OT victory - 10/22/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Michael Vick, Alge Crumpler, Ben Roethlisberger, Troy Polamalu Ben Roethlisberger stood on the Pittsburgh sideline with a white towel hanging around his neck. All he could do was watch as Michael Vick and the Falcons finished off the Steelers in a game that was just too good to be settled in 60 minutes.
Remember this one. It could be a defining game for both teams this season.
Vick threw a career-high four touchdown passes and hit another long play in overtime, setting up Morten Andersen to kick a 32-yard field goal that gave Atlanta a thrilling 41-38 win that featured enough twists and turns to last an entire season.
Where to begin? Vick responded to his critics in what had been a dismal season throwing the ball. Roethlisberger was unstoppable until he got knocked out with a scary blow to the head. Hines Ward had a remarkable homecoming.
There's more. The Falcons (4-2) though they had won in regulation on a 56-yard field goal by their No. 2 kicker, but it didn't count. The Super Bowl champion Steelers squandered a 17-7 lead, fumbling three times and getting surprised by an onside kick in the first half.
The Falcons struck for touchdowns after every Pittsburgh miscue, hanging around in a game that could have been a blowout. Finally, after six lead changes and both teams missing chances to break a 38-38 tie in the final minute, the second-oldest player in NFL history won it for Atlanta. | | | Battered Vick questions role after Falcons' loss to Giants - 10/20/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Michael Vick Falcons quarterback Michael Vick sounds fed up with how things are going in Atlanta. Fantasy Impact: Vick will continue to be frustrated until he learns to pass consistently. Don't start him unless you have to. | | | Falcons LB Hartwell to make '06 debut vs. Steelers - 10/18/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Edgerton Hartwell Middle linebacker Ed Hartwell, who missed the Atlanta Falcons' first five outings of the season after undergoing arthroscopic surgeries late in training camp to flush debris from both knees, will make his 2006 debut when he returns to the starting lineup Fantasy Impact: Expect the run defense to rebound from last week's debacle against the Giants, even more so with Hartwell back. Don't use him in IDP leagues yet. | | | Falcons G Lehr suspended four games by NFL (SportsTicker) - 10/17/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Michael Vick, Warrick Dunn NEW YORK (Ticker) - The Atlanta Falcons' top-ranked rushing offense will have to make due without a key member for the next four games. Fantasy Impact: This could have a bad effect on the Falcons running game, which is the driving force behind their offense. Move the team down for these four games. | | | Giants outrun Falcons, rally to win 27-14 - 10/16/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Michael Vick, Tiki Barber, Warrick Dunn, Alge Crumpler Tiki Barber and the New York Giants did a pretty good impression of the Atlanta Falcons.
Beating the Falcons at their own game, Barber rushed for 185 yards, Jeremy Shockey caught a couple of touchdown passes and the Giants overpowered Atlanta in the second half for a 27-14 victory.
The Giants (3-2) fell behind 14-3 when Warrick Dunn broke off a 90-yard touchdown on Atlanta's first offensive play of the third quarter -- the longest run in team history. But New York dominated the Falcons (3-2) the rest of the way, going ahead with touchdown drives of 84 and 91 yards.
"The good thing is we didn't get away from our running game despite being down by 11 points," Barber said. "We did what we do best, and that is running the football."
After Dunn's touchdown, New York scored on its next four possessions, piling up 240 yards while holding the ball more than 18 minutes. The Falcons went three-and-out on their next three possessions, doing nothing to help out their beleaguered, banged-up defense.
"The offense kept the defense out there way too long," tight end Alge Crumpler said. "We pride ourselves on taking care of the football and controlling the clock. That didn't happen today."
Barber did much of the damage, breaking off nine runs of at least 12 yards against a defense that was allowing 69.3 yards per game, the second-best figure in the league. New York scored the final 24 points of the game, shredding a banged-up defense that had given up only one touchdown all season.
"They just ran it down our throats," Dunn said, who rushed for 146 yards.
The Giants' defense pounded Michael Vick, who was slow to get up from several huge licks, was intercepted once and fumbled four times (though he lost only one). The quarterback did break off a spectacular 22-yard touchdown run -- capped off with a somersault into the end zone -- but he completed only 14 of 27 passes for 154 yards. | | | Falcons earthbound - 10/12/2006
Source: AM New York, Newsday Impacts: Michael Vick, Warrick Dunn Ground attack led by Vick, Dunn getting 234 yards per game Fantasy Impact: This should be a good matchup of a tough run defense and the best running team. Expect below-average rushing numbers from the Falcons, and the Giants will try to force Vick to throw. | | | Abraham hoping to rejoin Falcons defense Sunday - 10/11/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: John Abraham John Abraham pulled up his No. 55 jersey to about armpit level, as if he was trying to slip back into practice for the Atlanta Falcons without being noticed.
On Wednesday, everyone kept their eyes on the big defensive end, who put on a dominating show in the Falcons' season opener, but missed the last three games with a groin injury.
"Oh, man, I can't wait to see this guy back out there," said cornerback Kevin Mathis, who occupies a locker alongside Abraham's. "We'd love for him to be healthy and be able to play this week."
Unless Abraham has a setback over the next two days, it appears he'll be ready to go in Sunday's game against the New York Giants. He practiced in pads for the first time and didn't show any signs of favoring his injured groin. | | | After injury, Hartwell finds competition - 10/10/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Edgerton Hartwell, Keith Brooking, Michael Boley, Demorrio Williams Through four games, the Atlanta Falcons have listed Ed Hartwell as the team's starting middle linebacker. Fantasy Impact: It's going to be tough for Hartwell to get back into the lineup, but he is a great run-stopper and will help the defense when he returns. Don't count on him in IDP leagues unless he gains a full-time job. | | | Falcons' Lelie shows he adds more than speed - 10/08/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Ashley Lelie When the Atlanta Falcons acquired Ashley Lelie from the Denver Broncos in August, they knew they were adding a receiver with top speed who could stretch defenses and give quarterback Michael Vick the deep threat that was missing from the offense. Fantasy Impact: Lelie may be starting, but it's because of his run-blocking. The Falcons will still run a lot more than they pass, so don't start Lelie just yet. | | | Factoid: Michael Vick on pace to shatter 1,000-yard mark - 10/06/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: Michael Vick The first thing that struck me was how low the rushing numbers have been across the board thus far in '06. We're a quarter of a way through the season, and yet, no running back has eclipsed the 400-yard mark. Buffalo's remerging Willis McGahee is the closest, with 389 tough yards on 99 carries. At this pace, no rusher will reach the 1,600-yard plateau in 2006. Fantasy Impact: Vick's fantasy value is dependent on his rushing ability, so if he can crack 1000 yards, he will be a good overall fantasy QB. However, his stats will vary greatly from week to week. | | | Falcons' Abraham in first practice since Week 1 injury - 10/04/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: John Abraham John Abraham, who hasn't played since he won NFC defensive player of the week honors in his first game with Atlanta, returned to practice Wednesday.
Abraham suffered a groin injury in the Week 1 win over Carolina in which he had six tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles and one pass batted away. The Falcons, off this weekend, had their last practice of the week Wednesday, and Abraham decided the non-contact session was the perfect opportunity to test the groin.
Abraham said he hoped to play Oct. 15 game against the New York Giants.
"From today, I think so," Abraham said. "I think I practiced well. I'm still a little stiff. I'm still a little behind, but I think I'll be OK if I just stay here and work out and get back into the old John Abraham shape." | | | Abraham's absence not hurting Atlanta - 10/03/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: John Abraham, Patrick Kerney As the Atlanta Falcons prepared to face Arizona last week, Patrick Kerney followed a routine that helped him limit wear and tear on his injured right triceps. Fantasy Impact: By surviving without Abraham, the Falcons D should become a lot stronger when he returns. | | | Falcons notebook: Red zone leaves Falcons blue - 10/02/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Michael Vick, Warrick Dunn, Jerious Norwood, Alge Crumpler, Michael Jenkins Red signals stop. At least it does these days for the Falcons in the red zone. Fantasy Impact: If they struggle to score in the red zone against the Cardinals, imagine what could happen against a good team. This has to worry fantasy owners, unless you invested in Atlanta's kicking game. | | | 'D' the key as Falcons beat Cards 32-10 - 10/01/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Michael Vick, Kurt Warner, Matt Leinart, John Abraham, DeAngelo Hall Just imagine how good the Atlanta Falcons will be on defense when John Abraham returns.
For the third time in four games, the Atlanta defense didn't allow a touchdown. In fact, cornerback DeAngelo Hall scored one of his own with a 36-yard interception return and the Falcons cruised past the Arizona Cardinals 32-10.
The Michael Vick-led offense is having trouble getting into the end zone once it gets close -- not that it matters the way the defenders are playing. They have allowed only one touchdown all season, even though Abraham went down in Week 1 with a groin injury and hasn't played since.
"Part of being in the NFL is playing without guys throughout the season," said Patrick Kerney, who tied a career high with three sacks. "We've got so many veterans at all three levels -- along the line, linebacker and defensive back. Everyone is stepping up. Maybe we don't have many guys who are explosive as John, but we're not giving up any big plays."
Arizona did. Jerious Norwood scored on a 78-yard run, the longest in Falcons' history, while 46-year-old Morten Andersen equaled a career high with five field goals.
| | | Falcons having trouble getting their kicks _ away - 09/30/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Morten Andersen ATLANTA -- The Atlanta Falcons again lead the NFL in rushing. Their defense surrendered only one touchdown ... Fantasy Impact: Don't go near the Falcons' kicker unless he proves himself to be fantasy-worthy. | | | Falcons face defensive shuffle - 09/29/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Edgerton Hartwell, Keith Brooking, Michael Boley, Demorrio Williams, John Abraham Atlanta Falcons coach Jim Mora could be faced with a tough decision this week with the possible return of starting MLB Ed Hartwell , who has played in only five games since signing with the Falcons as... Fantasy Impact: While this could affect chemistry, the upgrade in run support would cancel this out. Watch Abrahman's status this week; if he's not in, the defense takes a huge hit. | | | Falcons' linebacker ready to get back in the game (AP) - 09/28/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Edgerton Hartwell Ed Hartwell is tired of hurting. He's tired of rehabbing. And most of all, he's tired of watching other guys play the game he loves so much. The Atlanta Falcons linebacker missed much of 2005 after tearing his Achilles' tendon. Then, just two weeks before the start of this season, he underwent arthroscopic surgery on both knees, knocking him out of the first three games. Fantasy Impact: The Falcons D has been pretty good thus far, but Hartwell would be a major boost in run support, force 3rd-and-long situations, and allow the pass-rushers to get easy shots at the QB. Once he gets in, move the Falcons D up. | | | Familiar sight: Vick near bottom of NFL passing stats (AP) - 09/27/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Michael Vick This looks familiar: Three weeks into the season, Michael Vick is mired near the bottom of the NFL's passing stats. His rating: 23rd. His yards: 28th. His completions: 47 percent. "I know everybody is going to look at the stats and say it looks bad for me," the Falcons quarterback said Wednesday after a two-hour practice. Fantasy Impact: If you didn't see this coming with Vick, you haven't been following football. Vick will continue to be very inconsistent, and his fantasy value will depend on his rushing ability, so he shouldn't be more than a spot starter. | | | Take that, Katrina: Triumphant homecoming for Saints - 09/26/2006
Source: ESPN, Macon In an earsplitting return to their rebuilt stadium, the Saints gave the Big Easy something to cheer about -- an undefeated football team that made it look easy with a 23-3 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on Monday night. Fantasy Impact: Many can argue that the Saints won on the high emotion of coming back to NO. However, they also forced Vick and the Falcons out of the running game and made him attempt to win by throwing. On the flip side, the defense did OK, but with Abraham on the sideline again they couldn't do enough to win. It's hard to take much from this win, other than that Vick still has to get better at passing for this team to win it all. | | | Saints return to Superdome, beat Falcons - 09/26/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Drew Brees, Reggie Bush, Michael Vick, Deuce McAllister, Marques Colston Just 90 seconds into a game that was a horrific year in the making, the New Orleans Saints flopped on a ball in the end zone -- and the party was on.
The defense beat up Michael Vick. Tom Benson danced off the field with his parasol. Even "The Superdome Special" worked to perfection.
The Saints are home again.
In an earsplitting return to their rebuilt stadium, the Saints gave the Big Easy something to cheer about -- an undefeated football team that made it look easy with a 23-3 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on Monday Night Football.
"From the moment I signed with the Saints, I was looking forward to this," said quarterback Drew Brees, who joined New Orleans during the offseason. "It was a great night. It's something we'll never forget."
After a Super Bowl-like pregame show that included a performance by supergroups U2 and Green Day, the Saints wasted no time turning their welcome-home party into Mardi Gras: The Falcons' first drive went three-and-out, and special teams demon Steve Gleason sliced through the middle of the Atlanta line to smother Michael Koenen's punt.
The ball skidded across the goal line, where Curtis Deloatch fell on it for a touchdown -- the first given up by the Falcons this season. Just like that, Saints sent an emphatic message to the NFL and the entire country: New Orleans is open for business.
"It meant a lot to them when the Saints didn't leave in their time of need," rookie Reggie Bush said. "When the people of New Orleans needed something to look to for confidence and something to be proud of, they looked to the Saints."
The Saints (3-0) poured it on against the Falcons (2-1), who fell behind 14-3 in the first quarter and never recovered. Devery Henderson scored New Orleans' second TD on an 11-yard double-reverse, taking a handoff from Bush and cutting inside the pylon with help from a gutsy block by quarterback Drew Brees.
John Carney kicked two field goals in the second period, including a 51-yarder that cleared the crossbar as time ran out. The Saints trotted to the locker room with a 20-3 lead and a rousing ovation ringing in their ears. The Falcons straggled off in the opposite direction, as if they already knew this wasn't going to be their night.
Deuce McAllister handled the bulk of the ground attack, with 19 rushes for 81 yards. Brees was 20 of 28 passing for 191 yards. His favorite receiver was rookie Marques Colston -- the fourth-to-last pick in this year's draft -- who grabbed seven passes for 97 yards.
The Saints seized first place all to themselves in the NFC South while matching their wins from all of last season. Forced to play in San Antonio, Baton Rouge and East Rutherford because of the Superdome's massive damage in 2005, New Orleans struggled to a 3-13 record as a team without a home.
Now, they're home for good.
Notes: Andersen did connect on a 26-yard field goal for the Falcons' only points. ... Atlanta DE John Abraham missed his second straight game with a groin injury. ... Saints FB Mike Karney returned to the lineup after sitting out the previous week with a strained calf. | | | Going Home To The Dome - 09/20/2006
Source: TBO.com Impacts: Warrick Dunn He's the NFL's leading rusher through two games. Last week, he was the NFL's leading rusher through one game. But then, he has always been a leader.
Warrick Dunn has been scooting through holes, not backing down from anyone, fighting the good fight on and off the field, longer than some of us can remember. But he'll slow down this Monday. He wants to savor the sights, sounds, emotions, everything.
"I'm going home," he said.
Dunn's Atlanta Falcons will play the Saints on "Monday Night Football" in reborn New Orleans, in the remade Superdome, which Hurricane Katrina turned into a place of horror. The NFL returns. The Saints are back home. Warrick Dunn, born in New Orleans, raised in Baton Rouge, can only imagine what it will be like.
"To come back, with what the city has been through, and to the Superdome, where so much happened, well, it's going to be one of those nights that people will always remember." | | | Falcons give it the old (or new) college try - 09/20/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: Michael Vick, Warrick Dunn Who do these guys think they are? The University of Oklahoma? Fantasy Impact: While the Falcons may not rack up many passing yards, this offensive approach will make for a rushing gold mine. Move the runners on this team up. | | | Falcons bring back Andersen after Koenen flops on field goals (AP) - 09/19/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Michael Koenen Forty-six-year-old Morten Andersen is returning to the Atlanta Falcons after Michael Koenen flopped badly in his attempt to do all the kicking. Andersen, the second-leading scorer in NFL history, returns to the league after last kicking with Minnesota in 2004. He will handle extra points and all field goal attempts -- except those well beyond 50 yards. Fantasy Impact: The three-way kicker experiment crashes and burns as the ancient Andersen replaces Koenen for most kicking duties. Drop Koenen, but don't pick up Andersen unless you need a spot starter. | | | Notebook:Kicking 'an issue,' Mora says - 09/18/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Michael Koenen Placekicker Michael Koenen was perfect during exhibition games. Fantasy Impact: Drop Koenen, since he is struggling to kick FGs and may be replaced. | | | Falcons run all over Buccaneers 14-3 - 09/17/2006
Source: NFL.com Impacts: Michael Vick, Warrick Dunn, John Abraham, Michael Koenen, Matt Bryant Michael Vick and Warrick Dunn made it look like practice.
When Tampa Bay tried to contain Vick, Dunn scooted through a huge hole up the middle. When the Buccaneers focused on stuffing the inside runs, Vick took off around the outside for another big gain.
Dunn ran for 134 yards against his former team, Vick added to one of his own NFL records with 127 yards and the Falcons set a franchise record with 306 yards on the ground while beating offensively challenged Tampa Bay 14-3.
The Falcons (2-0) fared just fine on defense, too, even though Week 1 star John Abraham didn't suit up because of a groin injury. Atlanta has yet to allow a touchdown this season.
The only glaring problem for Atlanta was Michael Koenen, who missed four field goals -- all from 40 yards and in. That might bring an end to the Falcons' plan to let him handle both the kicking and punting duties.
The Bucs were nearly shut out again. Matt Bryant, who missed two field goals, kicked a 22-yarder on the final play of the first half, which the Bucs were lucky to get after Simms burned precious time scrambling before throwing an incomplete pass that left one second on the clock. | | | Falcons' Abraham will not play against Buccaneers - 09/17/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: John Abraham Falcons linebacker John Abraham will not play Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Fantasy Impact: If you saw what he did in week 1, you know how much of an impact this will have on the defense. | | | More-mature Vick gives Falcons new dimension - 09/17/2006
Source: Orlando Sentinel Impacts: Michael Vick Michael Vick completed less than 50 percent of his passes, yet Atlanta marched into Carolina last weekend and punked the touted Panthers in an impressive 20-6 road victory.
Vick threw for just 140 yards, but two of his 10 completions went for touchdowns. He threw no interception. He ran seven times for 48 yards. He managed the game, directed an offense that rushed for 252 yards and exhibited a demeanor of a different kind of quarterback than the joystick whose incomparable highlights gave us "The Michael Vick Experience."
He appeared every bit as a dangerous, but more in command of his surroundings.
"I think his game has gotten more balanced," Panthers defensive tackle Kris Jenkins said afterward. "He's matured some, and he looked more focused as far as what he needed to do to lead the team." | | | Added strength making Jenkins a powerful weapon - 09/16/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Michael Jenkins Before he crossed the goal line for a 34-yard touchdown last week at Carolina, Michael Jenkins spun free from the sideline grip of cornerback Ken Lucas. Fantasy Impact: Jenkins has figured out that he won't burn defenders, and is now starting to use his big frame to succeed in the passing game. However, with Vick's inconsistencies at QB, don't use him as a starter. | | | Cadillac Ready To Play Falcons - 09/16/2006
Source: The Tampa Tribune Impacts: Carnell Williams he Bucs took their Cadillac down off the blocks Friday.
One day after back spasms forced Cadillac Williams to skip practice, the team's top tailback was back at work and vowing to run full throttle Sunday against Atlanta.
"I'm definitely looking forward to [Sunday's game]," said Williams, who was unable to finish the season opener against the Ravens because of similar back problems. "I'm kind of approaching it as if we're 0-0 and our season starts Sunday. | | | Falcons' Koenen: A one-man triplet - 09/15/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: Michael Koenen During a radio interview earlier this week, Atlanta Falcons' quarterback Michael Vick declared: "I'm a versatile player. I can beat people with my legs or my feet." Fantasy Impact: With Yelk off the practice squad, there is no doubt Koenen will continue to be the placekicker. Try him out if you need a kicker. | | | Falcons' Grady Jackson: The clog that roars - 09/14/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: Grady Jackson On the street, Grady Jackson is hard to miss but easy to overlook. Fantasy Impact: Jackson's presence was felt in week 1, as Carolina ran for just 65 yards. Expect him to continue to clog the lanes and make it hard for opposing RBs to find lanes. | | | Falcons defense dominates in Week 1; Can it overcome loss of Abraham? (AP) - 09/13/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: John Abraham, Grady Jackson Grady Jackson grabbed the Carolina center and tossed him aside as though he were putting out the garbage. That started a chain reaction: The center got tangled up with the fullback, who stumbled into the tight end, which left the running back nowhere to go. With one impressive display of strength, the 350-pound Jackson showed why Atlanta signed him to plug up things in the trenches -- and why the... Fantasy Impact: With Abraham on the sideline, the Falcons would lose a fierce pass-rush and be a borderline fantasy defense. Keep a close eye on the injury reports for the currently questionable DE. | | | Falcons' big win overshadowed by injuries to Abraham, Kerney - 09/11/2006
Source: ESPN, Yahoo! Impacts: John Abraham, Patrick Kerney FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- The Atlanta Falcons had every reason to gloat after getting back at Carolina, ... Fantasy Impact: Abraham and Kerney are being depended on to key the pass rush this year. If both miss time, the Falcons defense becomes far less fantasy-worthy. | | | Kerney leaves with arm injury (AP) - 09/10/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Patrick Kerney, Dan Morgan Atlanta defensive end Patrick Kerney left Sunday's game against Carolina with an arm injury, while the Panthers lost linebacker Dan Morgan and left tackle Travelle Wharton. Kerney suffered a right triceps strain in the first quarter. His return was questionable. Morgan was shaken up in the second quarter, and his return was also questionable. Fantasy Impact: Hopefully both are fine and can play next week, as they are keys to their defense. Keep an eye on the postgame report. | | | Falcons 20, Panthers 6 (AP) - 09/10/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, Macon Impacts: Warrick Dunn, Michael Vick, John Abraham, Jake Delhomme, DeShaun Foster Warrick Dunn figured Atlanta's dominating performance over Super Bowl favorite Carolina would come as a surprise. "Most people didn't think we could do that," said Dunn after he rushed for 132 yards in the Falcons' 20-6 win over the Panthers on Sunday. "We've added some guys who have been to the Pro Bowl. Fantasy Impact: While Vick didn't have great passing numbers as usual, he was respectable. The running game was in midseason form, putting up over 250 yards. Norwood got 10 carries while Dunn got 29. The Panthers offense sputtered without top WR Smith, as Delhomme completed barely over 50% and was picked once, while Foster ran for only 54 yards. Much was due to pressure by the Falcons' d-line, which put up four sacks, two by Abraham. Overall, a great game for the Falcons, and a poor one for the Panthers. | | | Dislike runs deep between Falcons, Panthers - 09/09/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer Impacts: Michael Vick, Chris Draft, DeAngelo Hall, Steve Smith Late in a meaningless preseason game last month, Carolina's public address announcer identified Marcus Vick as Miami's punt returner. Fantasy Impact: Tempers are running high for this rivalry. Both teams will leave it all on the field, and you can expect some monster fantasy performances. | | | Hartwell injury forces Falcons to shuffle linebackers - 09/07/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Edgerton Hartwell, Keith Brooking, Demorrio Williams, Michael Boley The Atlanta Falcons will be forced to shuffle their linebacking corps due to the injury to Ed Hartwell. Fantasy Impact: If you were planning to start Hartwell, sit him. Williams could make for an interesting play, since he racked up 125 tackles last year. | | | Koenen set to handle all 3 jobs for Falcons (AP) - 09/06/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Michael Koenen Four days before their season opener, the Atlanta Falcons still had only one kicker on their roster. Look for Michael Koenen to be handling all three jobs Sunday. After scanning the list of available kickers for someone who might be worth picking up, coach Jim Mora has all but settled on Koenen as the guy who will kick field goals and extra points, do the punting and handle kickoffs. Fantasy Impact: Now knowing for sure that Koenen will be the kicker, you can pick him up if you need to. Unless you're in dire straits, though, it'd be wise to leave him on the bench/wire this week. | | | Brooking could step inside - 09/06/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Keith Brooking, Demorrio Williams Head coach Jim Mora isn't ready to reveal how the Atlanta Falcons will use their linebackers with Ed Hartwell likely unable to play in the season opener this week at Carolina. Fantasy Impact: Brooking is a better IDP player when on the outside, but he should be fine playing in the middle. Williams can pile up tackles and may be worth a look as a spot-starter early on. | | | Panthers wary of Atlanta's cut blocking technique (AP) - 09/05/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Julius Peppers, Michael Vick Carolina's defense has its hands full against Atlanta simply trying to contain quarterback Michael Vick and its running game. Throw in the Falcons' tendency to cut block on offense, and the Panthers know Sunday's season opener could get dangerous. Defensive ends Julius Peppers and Mike Rucker both suffered sprained ankles last year against Atlanta when Falcons players legally tackled them below the... Fantasy Impact: The Panthers seemed to figure out how to win despite the cut blocks last year, but you have to up the risk on the defenders this week, especially since Peppers and Rucker sprained their ankles on cut blocks. | | | Falcons cut DT Lavalais while getting down to 53-player limit (AP) - 09/02/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Chad Lavalais, Jerome Pathon, Tony Yelk, Jason Randall Defensive tackle Chad Lavalais, who started 20 games over the last two seasons, was the most notable player waived by the Atlanta Falcons on Saturday. Lavalais, a fifth-round draft pick out of LSU in 2004, started six games as a rookie and all 14 games he played last season. The 6-foot-1, 292-pounder made 33 tackles, including 2 1/2 sacks, on a defense that gave up more yards rushing than any team... Fantasy Impact: Remove the fantasy value of all these players. | | | Jaguars 20, Falcons 17 (AP) - 08/31/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, Macon Impacts: Matt Schaub The Atlanta Falcons went through their normal warmups before the game, then got a surprise when they returned to the locker room. The starters wouldn't be playing. Charles Sharon caught a pair of touchdown passes to lead the Jacksonville Jaguars past the Falcons 20-17 on Thursday night in the battle of the backups. Fantasy Impact: The game would have some fantasy impact had the starters played. Instead, it was merely a chance for backups to prove their worth. At least we know Schaub is ready in case Vick goes down. | | | Falcons have a kicker, Jaguars need a running back (AP) - 08/31/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Michael Koenen Falcons coach Jim Mora was sort of pulling for Michael Koenen to miss a field goal during the preseason, just to see how the kicking prodigy would react to a little adversity. Koenen wouldn't go along with the plan. He's 7-for-7 through the first three exhibition games, making everything from the chip shots (a 21-yarder last week) to the clutch kicks (a 40-yarder as time expired to beat New... Fantasy Impact: It's what we figured: Koenen is now working as the kicker and punter this year. Move him up slightly, but with his inexperience you should leave him on the pine. | | | Shockley has plenty of experience when it comes to waiting (AP) - 08/30/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, Macon Impacts: D.J. Shockley D.J. Shockley made the team. Now, he'll have to wait a while for a chance to play in a real game. That shouldn't be a problem. The Atlanta Falcons' new third-string quarterback redshirted one season and spent three more years as David Greene's backup at Georgia before finally getting a chance to start for the Bulldogs as a senior. Fantasy Impact: Hopefully he is kept waiting all year, as he won't have any fantasy impact unless both Vick and Schaub go down. | | | On the depth chart and his jersey, Shockley is No. 3 - 08/29/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: D.J. Shockley So far, at least, patience has been rewarded for D.J. Shockley and Marlion Jackson. Fantasy Impact: Neither player will have a fantasy impact unless injuries occur. | | | Hartwell's return to Falcons tripped by knee surgery - 08/29/2006
Source: ESPN, Yahoo! Impacts: Edgerton Hartwell Falcons linebacker Ed Hartwell is having surgery on his knees. Fantasy Impact: He is expected to miss a few weeks, and his availability for the season opener is in doubt. Move him and the Falcons D down, as he is depended on in run support. | | | Pacman can return to team - 08/28/2006
Source: Tennessean Impacts: Pacman Jones, Peter Sirmon, Stephen Tulloch, Michael Vick, Vince Young Cornerback Pacman Jones will be subject to no further discipline from the Titans until charges from his recent arrest are resolved through the legal system, Coach Jeff Fisher said Sunday.
Jones was not allowed to play in Saturday's preseason game against the Falcons after he was arrested early Friday morning in Murfreesboro on charges of disorderly conduct and public drunkenness.
Fantasy Impact: Pacman continues to find himself in hot water and needs to get his act together. On a side note, the Titans are one of 3 teams that do not have a passing TD in the preseason. Maybe the addition of veteran QB Kerry Collins will spur Volek and Young into action. | | | Falcons 20, Titans 6 (AP) - 08/27/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Jerious Norwood, Michael Koenen Jerious Norwood needed only one play to show why the Atlanta Falcons no longer needed T.J. Duckett. The rookie out of Mississippi State replaced Warrick Dunn on the third series, then scored a 62-yard touchdown on his second carry Saturday night in helping the Falcons beat the Tennessee Titans 20-6 Saturday night. Fantasy Impact: So this is why they traded Duckett. Norwood should definitely be handcuffed to Dunn, as the Falcons will give him plenty of chances. The passing game was avearge as you'd expect, but they ran the ball a lot. The defense looked good and put lots of pressure; Kerney in particular had two sacks. Move the D up. Koenen looks like he will be kicking on opening day, so move him up a bit. | | | Shockley officially is No. 3 QB for Falcons (AP) - 08/27/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: D.J. Shockley Unless Michael Vick and Matt Schaub both are hurt during the regular season, D.J. Shockley might get his last chance to play this year for the Atlanta Falcons in a preseason game this week. But at least the former Georgia star now knows he faces no more competition to become the Falcons' No. 3 quarterback. Fantasy Impact: The rookie will have no fantasy impact unless both Vick and Schaub go down, so don't worry about him. | | | Falcons' concerns pale in comparison to Titans' - 08/26/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Ashley Lelie, Pacman Jones The Atlanta Falcons have some unsolved issues entering their third preseason game tonight at Tennessee, but at least team president-general manager Rich McKay corrected two flaws this week. Fantasy Impact: The Falcons are becoming more solid on paper, but wait to see how the new pieces fit before assessing the fantasy ramifications. | | | Experts Poll: Defenses (Yahoo! Sports) - 08/25/2006
Source: Yahoo! The Jacksonville Jaguars jumped over the Indianapolis Colts and Tampa Bay Buccaneers to move into the top five in the latest experts poll. Fantasy Impact: Just a few fantasy experts' rankings of defenses. | | | Lelie makes Falcons practice debut - 08/25/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Ashley Lelie Ashley Lelie promises to use his fierce pride as a positive influence for the Atlanta Falcons. Fantasy Impact: Very interesting that he is acknowledging his no.3 role, after being upset with that position in Denver. That may be because he knows he will get more looks in Atlanta. Either way, he is not suiting up for the next preseason game, and he is not a fantasy player in the run-first Falcons offense. | | | Lelie had to pay a hefty price for his departure - 08/24/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Ashley Lelie DENVER -- Ashley Lelie's departure from Denver was a costly one.
Fantasy Impact: Talk about hitting you where it hurts. Lelie could be one of the only NFL players in history that has to pay to play, as the estimated $982,000 in fines is more than his base salary for this year of approximately $600,000. Let's see if this motivates him to play lights-out. | | | If Broncos demand all that's due, Lelie may pay to play - 08/24/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Ashley Lelie Depending on how Broncos officials resolve various fines and potential penalties pending against Ashley Lelie, he might have to pay to play in 2006. Fantasy Impact: Looks like Lelie is not out of the blue yet. Maybe being forced to pay to play will motivate him this year. Then again, he may lose all motivation, knowing that he isn't getting any money this year. | | | PFW: Last look at NFC South training camps - 08/24/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Michael Vick, Dan Morgan Pro Football Weekly takes one last look at each NFC South team's training camp. Fantasy Impact: Vick will be the most watched Falcon yet again, and we'll have to see how new WR Lelie fits into the offense. If the Panthers DTs can stay healthy and the LBs can solidify, they will be an incredible defense. | | | New Falcon Lelie has red flags all over him - 08/24/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: Ashley Lelie The Atlanta Falcons were damned if they did and damned if they didn't. So they rolled the dice Tuesday night, jumping into a three-team trade that sent RB T.J. Duckett from Atlanta to Washington and WR Ashley Lelie from Denver to Atlanta. Fantasy Impact: While they get a deep threat in Lelie, he is not nearly as consistent as Finneran, who is slower but has better hands. Lelie won't be a fantasy factor, and it remains to be seen how his presence affects the passing of Vick. | | | Lelie adds speed to Falcons' offense (AP) - 08/23/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Ashley Lelie An Atlanta Falcons offense already built for speed gained more than one set of fleet feet in Tuesday's trade with Denver for receiver Ashley Lelie. The three-team trade, which sent burly running back T.J. Duckett to the Washington Redskins, also opens playing time for rookie running back Jerious Norwood as Warrick Dunn's top backup. Fantasy Impact: A very good point. Lelie has exceptional speed, as evidenced by his 20.4 yards/catch average in 2004, his best season. If Vick can hone his accuracy a bit, Lelie could be the recipient of a few deep balls this season. However, he will find it difficult to put up fantasy-worthy numbers. | | | Falcons add bulk, line up deal with DT Jackson - 08/23/2006
Source: ESPN, Yahoo! Impacts: Grady Jackson The Falcons late Tuesday reached agreement in principle with unrestricted free agent defensive tackle Grady Jackson on a three-year contract. Fantasy Impact: Jackson instantly upgrades the run defense with his immense size. Move the Falcons up, as their better run defense will force more passing situations and allow Jackson's d-line mates to wreak havoc. | | | Dunn says he feels like the Dangerfield of NFL - 08/23/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Warrick Dunn Maybe this will be the year Warrick Dunn is mentioned among the top running backs in the NFL. Maybe this will be the year that no one questions whether he's durable enough to handle the job. Maybe this will be the year that his size isn't an issue. Fantasy Impact: It's important for a RB to stay hungry and not get complacent, and Dunn knows it. Look for him to have a good season, but see how the Falcons divide up the TD chances, as his value could jump. | | | Trade benefits all three franchises - 08/22/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Ashley Lelie, T.J. Duckett, Javon Walker The three-team trade that sent wide receiver Ashley Lelie to Atlanta late Tuesday might have been one of the most difficult to put together in the past couple of years. The Broncos wanted a good first... Fantasy Impact: The main fantasy beneficiaries are the Falcons' RBs, who get to divide amongst themselves the TDs previously given to Duckett. The others don't have great fantasy value or take away from their new teammates. | | | Page 2: Madden player rankings - 08/22/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN Impacts: Donovan McNabb, Tiki Barber, Clinton Portis, Jake Delhomme, Warrick Dunn Does your guy make Madden's Top 10? | | | Williams, Norwood facing growing pains - 08/22/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Jimmy Williams, Jerious Norwood The Atlanta Falcons are counting on Jimmy Williams and Jerious Norwood to fill major roles this year. Fantasy Impact: Looks like Williams won't be an IDP starter yet. Move him down a bit. | | | Is trading T.J. Duckett really a good idea? - 08/22/2006
Source: RealFootball365, ESPN Impacts: T.J. Duckett If the rumor mill is to be believed, the Atlanta Falcons seem eager to trade fifth-year RB T.J. Duckett, with the Jets and Redskins the most interested suitors. Fantasy Impact: Duckett's value is very volatile at this point, since we don't know what his role will be this year. At this point, look at him as a TD-only back, but if he is traded he could see a spike in value. | | | Falcons trade Duckett to Redskins, get Lelie from Denver - 08/22/2006
Source: ESPN, Yahoo! Impacts: T.J. Duckett, Ashley Lelie, Ladell Betts, Jerious Norwood ATLANTA -- The Washington Redskins were desperate to acquire another running back. The Atlanta Falcons ... Fantasy Impact: Wow. This is a huge trade with major implications. Duckett becomes the new no.2 back in Washington, and could be a good spot start in the first couple weeks if Portis cannot go. More importantly, he could become a TD vulture like he was in ATL and sap a lot of Portis' value. Likewise, he takes away most of Betts' fantasy value, and you can drop him if you have him. Lelie will probably be the no.3 WR in Atlanta, but keep in mind that he wanted to be a no.1. He does not hold much value in the run-first Falcons offense. Norwood becomes the no.2 back in Atlanta, and sees a healthy spike in value. It will be interesting to see how he and Dunn split the TD carries previously afforded to Duckett. Watch the ATL offense closely over the next couple of weeks, because Dunn could have a big jump in value if he is given red-zone carries. | | | Duckett could be dealt soon - 08/22/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: T.J. Duckett The Falcons have been shopping veteran RB T.J. Duckett over the last few weeks in order to improve their depth at receiver. According to people I've talked to, a deal could go down in the next 48 hour... Fantasy Impact: Be ready to move depending on where Duckett goes. His fantasy value, along with many other players, could change very soon. | | | Whispers from around the NFL - 08/21/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, ESPN Impacts: Steve Smith, Allen Rossum, David Patten, Scott Shanle, Brodrick Bunkley Pro Football Weekly is hearing that Steve McNair's even-keeled demeanor has been a breath of fresh air for the Ravens. Fantasy Impact: Smith not returning punts reduces his fantasy value slightly, though he is still a top-3 WR. Rossum's already minimal fantasy value is in danger as he battles for the returner job. While Patten is now likely to make the team, he is still no more than 4th on the depth chart and is not worthy of a roster spot. The Cowboys could use o-line depth behind their starters, and trading an excess LB is a good way to get it. It looks like Bunkley's holdout hasn't affected his abilities, and he should be a solid player on the Eagles. | | | Packers 38, Falcons 10 (AP) - 08/20/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, Macon Impacts: Michael Vick A couple of their touchdowns might have come on fluke plays, but the Green Bay Packers offense suddenly looked legitimate on Saturday night. One week after being held to a single field goal in San Diego, the Packers put together several sustained scoring drives in a 38-10 preseason victory over the Atlanta Falcons. Fantasy Impact: The offense was a bit shaky, showing both good and bad, so you have to up the risk a little bit. As for the defense, 38 points given up is never a good sign, so they should move down as well. | | | Packers' young line faces test from Falcons (AP) - 08/18/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: John Abraham, Brett Favre Brett Favre is back. Now the Green Bay Packers have to find a way to keep him off his back. The Packers' revamped offensive line sputtered in its preseason debut, and now faces another serious test in Saturday night's preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons at Lambeau Field. Favre was sacked on back-to-back plays and knocked down several times in San Diego last Saturday, causing the Packers to... | | | Team mum on dealing Duckett - 08/18/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: T.J. Duckett Atlanta Falcons general manager Rich McKay and coach Jim Mora didn't want to talk Thursday about reports the New York Jets have interest in acquiring running back T.J. Duckett. Fantasy Impact: Watch this situation very carefully, as Duckett and Norwood stand to see their fantasy values increase if the big man is indeed traded. | | | Falcons kicker tries to pull off triple play (AP) - 08/16/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Michael Koenen never stops moving, even during all that idle time he spends away from the field. While talking to someone in the hallway of the Atlanta Falcons training complex, he yanks his left knee toward his chest, then does the same with his right, as if he's about to take off running at any moment. Fantasy Impact: It could be a tough job for Koenen, but he does have some value if he wins the kicker job. Either way, he should only be a post-draft FA pickup. | | | Most memorable moments (Yahoo! Sports) - 08/14/2006
Source: Yahoo!, Yahoo!, Yahoo! Impacts: Randy Moss, Ben Roethlisberger, John Abraham Randy Moss went out of his way to respect his elders, while Ben Roethlisberger reached out to his adoring public. Fantasy Impact: No fantasy impact | | | Falcons' Norwood makes strong first impression - 08/14/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: Jerious Norwood It looks as if the Atlanta based running back firm of Dunn & Duckett, Ltd., will be adding a new partner. Fantasy Impact: He has been touted as the successor to Dunn, but he is definitely looking like he will contribute this year. Keep an eye on him. | | | Michael Vick: A runner masquerading as a QB? The debate rages (AP) - 08/13/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Michael Vick Every now and then, the criticism gets to Michael Vick. Last year, after resembling a traditional quarterback in a win at Miami, Vick told all the cynics to quit harping on his unique style and acknowledge that he could be effective as a dropback passer when he really put his mind to it. But, as the Atlanta Falcons fell apart down the stretch, the Vick-isn't-a-real-quarterback lobby got louder. | | | Not-so Mr. Irrelevant (Yahoo! Sports) - 08/12/2006
Source: Yahoo!, Yahoo!, Yahoo! , Andy ThornHe could be the last man to make his 53-man roster. But to NFL coaches, he's just as valuable as the franchise quarterback. | | | Falcons get kick out of Koenen to beat Patriots in end - 08/12/2006
Source: ESPN, Yahoo!, Macon Michael Koenen, who handled the punting and kickoff duties last season, booted four long field goals Friday night, including a 40-yarder as time expired to lead the Atlanta Falcons past the New England Patriots on Friday night. Fantasy Impact: An interesting new addition to the Falcons' kicker competition. If Koenen can somehow win the job, he has the leg to be an interesting prospect. Don't draft him yet. | | | Teams try to sort out fringe jobs as preseason begins (AP) - 08/10/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: D.J. Shockley The first game of the preseason is a chance to sort out some of the fringe jobs on a football team. For the Atlanta Falcons, all eyes will be on two guys contending to be the No. 3 quarterback -- even though the player who comes out on top faces the very real possibility of watching the entire season from the sidelines. | | | Falcons Pro Bowl cornerback wants to show his offensive skills - 08/09/2006
Source: ESPN, Yahoo!, Macon Impacts: DeAngelo Hall FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- DeAngelo Hall is one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL. Apparently, that's not ... Fantasy Impact: Hall won't make enough catches to be fantasy-worthy, but he could help Vick's stats. | | | Rossum eager to place last season in the past - 08/07/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Allen Rossum For the first time since he first signed with the Atlanta Falcons in March 2002, Allen Rossum faces spirited competition to keep his jobs as kickoff and punt returner. Two rookies, running back Jerious Norwood and receiver Adam Jennings, are consistently challenging Rossum as the Falcons enter their second full week of training camp. Fantasy Impact: Even if he is the main returner, Rossum won't have much of a fantasy impact. | | | Ray Anderson appointed VP of football operations for NFL (AP) - 08/07/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, ESPN Ray Anderson, vice president of the Atlanta Falcons for the last four years, was appointed Monday as the NFL's senior vice president of football operations. Anderson replaces Art Shell, who resigned last January to become coach of the Oakland Raiders. A former agent, the 52-year-old Anderson played football and baseball for three years at Stanford and later graduated from Harvard Law School. | | | QB hopes pass-blocking improves this year (AP) - 08/07/2006
Source: Yahoo!, Macon Impacts: Michael Vick Some critics believe Michael Vick has yet to prove he is an elite quarterback. Even though he has won 33 of 51 career starts, Vick knows his detractors harp on his struggles in making good reads, throwing accurately and fumbling. "I don't know," Vick said Monday. "I guess if it's not done a certain way, then you're not going to get recognition for it, but I think in the end, when my career is over,... Fantasy Impact: Fortunately, Vick is getting more comfortable with the offensive scheme. Move him up slightly. | | | Storms don't dampen spirits at Midtown Touchdown - 08/06/2006
Source: Macon Richard Kim was among a few hundred fans who wanted Michael Vicki's autograph badly enough to stand in line for several hours Saturday afternoon. | | | Vick looking better after third straight practice (AP) - 08/06/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, ESPN Impacts: Michael Vick, Roddy White Michael Vick ran drills with the first-team offense for the Atlanta Falcons' entire practice Sunday. The three-time Pro Bowl quarterback missed four sessions with a tweaked hamstring after pulling up and leaving a training camp workout on Tuesday. He returned Saturday morning and participated in the brief practice later that night at Grady High Stadium in Atlanta. Fantasy Impact: Although it's bad that White was forced out, seeing Vick back is real good. Move him back to where he was, noting of course his inconsistencies. | | | With Schaub, Falcons are able to fly standby - 08/04/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Matt Schaub Matt Schaub's confidence rose last season when he threw four touchdown passes with no interceptions. But the bigger confidence-builder for the Atlanta Falcons' quarterback came during the offseason. | | | Notebook: Hall spends some more time at wide receiver - 08/04/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: DeAngelo Hall The NFL's Fastest Man showed Thursday he is also quick with wardrobe changes. Fantasy Impact: While Hall won't be rosterable for his offensive contributions only, he could help Vick and the passing game move up a bit. Keep a close eye on this development. | | | Inconsistency is Super Mike's kryptonite - 08/02/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: Michael Vick If he was an actor, Michael Vick would be Marlon Brando. If he was a golfer, he'd be John Daly. Fantasy Impact: His inconsistencies at passing are the main reason for the high risk on Vick. He could put up monster numbers one week, then a dud the next week. Be extremely careful with him, and let someone else draft him if possible. | | | NFL | Shockey is recovering from mild concussion - 08/02/2006
Source: Philadelphia Enquirer, Dallas Star-Telegram Impacts: Jeremy Shockey, David Patten, Michael Vick Three-time Pro Bowl tight end Jeremy Shockey suffered a mild concussion in a collision with safety Will Demps at New York's practice Monday night, a Giants spokesman said yesterday. Fantasy Impact: Move Shockey, Patten, and Vick down a little until you see them recover. | | | Gandy learning scheme on line - 08/02/2006
Source: Macon Wayne Gandy is going into his 13th NFL season. Still, he's not too old to learn a thing or two. Fantasy Impact: He seems to be willing to pick up the zone-blocking scheme. That, combined with his veteran savvy, should keep Vick on his feet longer. | | | FALCONS NOTEBOOK: Williams coming around after a slow start - 08/02/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Jimmy Williams The Atlanta Falcons' top draft pick got off to a slow start in training camp, but he's starting to come around. Fantasy Impact: Good news for IDP teams, as Williams is moving closer to a starting spot. He will have tons of big-play opportunities if he is in the lineup. | | | Showing them the money (Yahoo! Sports) - 08/02/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Mario Williams, Reggie Bush, Vince Young, Braylon Edwards NFL veterans are growing more concerned over the large shift in guaranteed dollars to rookies drafted in the first round. | | | NFL NOTES: Desperados kicker gets a shot with the Falcons - 08/01/2006
Source: Dallas Star-Telegram Carlos Martinez, who has kicked for the Dallas Desperados in the Arena Football League the past three seasons, signed a contract Monday with the Atlanta Falcons. Fantasy Impact: This can't be a good sign for the Falcons kicking game. Don't even think about grabbing one of their kickers until we're into the season. | | | Vick might miss two days with tweaked hamstring (AP) - 08/01/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, ESPN Impacts: Michael Vick Michael Vick left the Atlanta Falcons' practice with a tweaked hamstring Tuesday night, but coach Jim Mora doesn't expect the three-time Pro Bowl quarterback to miss more than two days. Vick needed no assistance as he walked off the field after pulling up during a team drill with 45 minutes remaining in the two-hour session. Fantasy Impact: The last thing Vick needs is a bum hamstring, since he is best when scrambling. Bump him down a bit until you see how well he recovers. | | | Shockey, Patten, Kinney sidelined, Brady back (AP) - 08/01/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Jeremy Shockey, Michael Vick, Steve Smith, David Patten, DeAngelo Hall Jeremy Shockey expects rough treatment from opponents. He isn't looking for it from teammates, particularly in training camp. The New York Giants tight end missed Tuesday's practice in Albany, N.Y., with post-concussion headaches. The three-time Pro Bowler suffered the mild concussion the previous night when he took a shot from safety Will Demps. Fantasy Impact: Looks like Smith is on his way back to full strength. Lower the risk on him. Hall's injury, while minor, is a little concerning since he is the key to the pass defense. | | | Some young Falcons aren't happy campers - 07/31/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Jerious Norwood, Patrick Kerney Patrick Kerney took a few minutes to work with Tommy Jackson after practice Sunday morning, but most young players are learning lessons the hard way at Falcons training camp. Fantasy Impact: Norwood's fumbling problems force a slight drop in his projections, until he proves he can hold on to the ball. | | | IN MY OPINION: Draft: Vick's 'greatness' still questionable - 07/31/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer Impacts: Michael Vick Atlanta quarterback Michael Vick has speed, moves and a powerful arm. He's your quarterback if you want to dazzle fans and sell jerseys. | | | Falcons' Finneran will be lost for season - 07/31/2006
Source: RealFootball365, ESPN, Yahoo! Impacts: Brian Finneran Michael Vick's passing options may have been diminished even more. Fantasy Impact: Vick will be in trouble without his most consistent WR. Bump up his other receivers who will pick up the slack a little, but drop Vick. | | | Training-camp postcard: Falcons (SI.com) - 07/31/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: John Abraham, Patrick Kerney, Matt Schaub, Michael Vick, Brian Finneran Where's Peter? At the Atlanta Falcons' training complex in Flowery Branch, Ga., 40 minutes north of Atlanta. Fantasy Impact: Looks like Abraham and Kerney are going to be harassing QBs all year, judging from the practices. Bump up their sack numbers a little. | | | Healthy Hartwell enhances defense for Falcons - 07/30/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Edgerton Hartwell The Atlanta Falcons fell from the NFC Championship game following the 2004 season to finishing out of the playoffs last year at 8-8. Fantasy Impact: Hartwell is healthy and looking good so far, and should help return the run defense to prominence. | | | Notebook: Norwood catching on at first camp as pro running back - 07/30/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Jerious Norwood Three days into the Atlanta Falcons' training camp, rookie running back Jerious Norwood looks like a quick learner. Fantasy Impact: Norwood could push Duckett out during camp, and while he won't be a fantasy factor yet, bump him up a little. | | | Falcons' Finneran carted off field (SI.com) - 07/30/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Brian Finneran Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Brian Finneran, who was expected to be Michael Vick's most reliable target in an... Fantasy Impact: Not good for Vick and the Falcons, who lose the most reliable and experienced receiver on their roster. Downgrade Vick until you hear further reports. | | | Falcons' Finneran suffers injury, likely season-ending - 07/30/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, Yahoo! Impacts: Brian Finneran Veteran wide receiver Brian Finneran, an integral part of the Atlanta Falcons' passing game, sustained a likely season-ending injury during a Sunday night practice, when his right knee buckled as he made a cut in a non-contact drill. Fantasy Impact: This is a bad break for the Falcons, as they lose their best receiver. Drop Vick a little bit, but bump up the receivers slightly as they will get more looks. | | | Notebook: Mora likes physical play of safeties - 07/29/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Lawyer Milloy, Chris Crocker Atlanta Falcons safeties were often criticized for playing soft last season. Fantasy Impact: The safeties were very poor last year, but the new starters are already showing their stuff. The defense should be better with these guys. | | | Atlanta's Williams eager to get started - 07/28/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: Jimmy Williams Jimmy Williams is now officially employed, and he likes it. Fantasy Impact: He should be eager, since he has a chance at starting from day 1. At least he wants it. | | | A gambler's viewpoint of the upcoming season - 07/28/2006
Source: RealFootball365, RealFootball365, RealFootball365 It's that time of year folks. No, I'm not talking about training camp, which is already getting into full swing. I'm talking NFL gambling. | | | Pasquarelli: Observations from Falcons camp - 07/28/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Michael Vick, John Abraham, Lawyer Milloy, Chris Crocker, Keith Brooking The Atlanta defense showed improvement and Michael Vick was impressive, writes Len Pasquarelli in his observations from Falcons camp. Fantasy Impact: The defense should be a great source of sacks. It is nice to see Vick getting better, which should bode well for his fantasy value. | | | Pasquarelli: Falcons set to 'sack' the competition - 07/28/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: John Abraham, Rod Coleman, Patrick Kerney The addition of John Abraham gives the Falcons three DLs who could realistically post a double-digit sack season. Fantasy Impact: Three double-digit sackers on the line is very scary for QBs, but great for fantasy owners. | | | Abraham gives Falcons' DL another big-name star (AP) - 07/28/2006
Source: Yahoo!, Macon Impacts: John Abraham John Abraham has found his comfort zone after one practice in pads with the Falcons. A smiling Abraham proclaimed he finally felt like he was home following six seasons with the Jets. "This is how I'm used to life being," Abraham said Friday. "When I went to New York, that was culture shock. Coming down here, this is how life is supposed to be lived." Abraham, a former South Carolina star who was... Fantasy Impact: Not good for QBs when they see Abraham in a comfort zone. That means he is ready to get after them regularly, but that is nice for fantasy teams. | | | Top draft picks still unsigned - 07/27/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Jimmy Williams, Jason Webster, D.J. Shockley, Adam Jennings In his first two training camps as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, Jim Mora had to wait six days for the team's top draft pick to report. Fantasy Impact: Williams needs to get into camp soon to have a chance at unseating Webster at CB. Keep an eye, as this could have a major impact, especially in IDP leagues. | | | Falcons sign three - 07/27/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: D.J. Shockley, Adam Jennings The Atlanta Falcons have signed fifth-round pick Quinn Ojinnaka, sixth-round pick Adam Jennings, and D.J. Shockley, a seventh-round selection, to four-year contracts. Fantasy Impact: None of them will have major fantasy impacts for a while. | | | Offseason report cards (SI.com) - 07/27/2006
Source: Yahoo!, Yahoo!, Yahoo! Since training camps are opening, it makes sense that we make a final evaluation of what has transpired around... | | | Falcons agree to terms with CB Jimmy Williams - 07/27/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN, ESPN Impacts: Jimmy Williams FLOWERY BRANCH, Georgia (Ticker) - The Atlanta Falcons on Thursday agreed to terms with cornerback Jimmy Williams, their first pick in the 2006 draft. Fantasy Impact: Williams is expected to contend for a starting stop, and at the least will be a nickelback. He could be a good IDP play if he gets lots of playing time. | | | Vick vows to give Super effort in 2006 (AP) - 07/27/2006
Source: Yahoo!, Macon, ESPN Impacts: Michael Vick Five years in the NFL have taught Michael Vick a painful lesson: He's not Superman, even if a tattoo on his hand says otherwise. Even worse, when Vick looks at the last game from the Atlanta Falcons' disappointing 2005 season, he accuses himself of "not giving my all" a sharp self-criticism he says led him to apologize to teammates. Fantasy Impact: We've heard this for a while now. If anything, his statements could make him overvalued. If you do draft him, make sure to get a capable backup. | | | Williams makes late arrival to first training camp (AP) - 07/27/2006
Source: Yahoo!, ESPN Impacts: Jimmy Williams With about 10 minutes left in the Falcons' first training camp session Thursday, top draft pick Jimmy Williams strolled onto the field, carrying a new team shoulder bag and a new contract. Williams, a cornerback from Virginia Tech who was the Falcons' second-round draft selection, was the team's last pick to agree to a contract. Fantasy Impact: By getting into camp just a day late, Williams still has a good shot at getting the starting CB job opposite Hall. If he does, he could be a good IDP corner. | | | Green: Falcons must pass test - 07/27/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Michael Vick Atlanta's postseason hopes likely rest on Michael Vick's relationship with his coaches, writes Jeremy Green. Fantasy Impact: Friction between the coaches and the franchise QB is a bad situation. Move Vick down a bit. | | | FFL: Engel's Round One Guide - 07/26/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, ESPN Scott Engel breaks down how to approach the first round of your fantasy football draft. | | | Byrne's training camp power rankings - 07/25/2006
Source: RealFootball365, RealFootball365, RealFootball365 The NFL's 32 organizations are all pouring into training camp at some point in the next week, which makes now a good time to take a look at where the teams rank. | | | Whispers from around the NFL - 07/24/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN Impacts: John Abraham, Eric Shelton, Darwin Walker Pro Football Weekly is hearing that Lions RB Kevin Jones has been working on catching the ball this offseason. Fantasy Impact: Abraham gets injured often enough that the Falcons will need a good backup. The Panthers love to pound the rock, which could make Shelton valuable if healthy. The Eagles need Walker to rebound to steady the DT rotation they like to use. | | | NFC's burning questions (Yahoo! Sports) - 07/24/2006
Source: Yahoo! Impacts: Terrell Owens, Eli Manning, Michael Vick, Keyshawn Johnson Going into training camp, here are the NFC's 10 most important issues, beginning with Seattle's chances for a repeat. Fantasy Impact: TO is only the third-most important question? Either way, he will be watched closely in training camp. If Manning can improve on last year's number, the Giants will contend and fantasy owners will be grabbing Giants players with ease. Vick must improve his passing to become a reliable QB. Johnson may not be more than a no.3 fantasy WR, but if he can draw coverage off Smith and the run, he will help fantasy owners a lot. | | | Mora looking for a reliable kicker during training camp - 07/23/2006
Source: Macon Impacts: Tony Yelk, Zac Derr Of the Atlanta Falcons' eight losses last season, four came in games decided by three points, a statistic which adds emphasis to the top training camp concern for coach Jim Mora: Fantasy Impact: The Falcons are without a reliable starting kicker, and that is not good for a team with playoff aspirations. Don't depend on a Falcon kicker in your draft. | | | NFL 2006: A first look - 07/23/2006
Source: Charlotte Observer A team-by-team breakdown as teams gear up for start of training camp. | | | Pasquarelli: Overlooked, discussion-worthy camp battles - 07/21/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, ESPN Len Pasquarelli takes a look at the lesser-publicized competitions that will take place in training camps around the league this summer. Fantasy Impact: If the Falcons don't find a good NT, they will struggle versus the run. The Cowboys must get a consisntent RT, else risk injury to Bledsoe and a blowup from TO. The Eagles will need stability on the o-line as well to return to prominence. | | | 20 questions on the NFL - 07/20/2006
Source: Philadelphia Enquirer WITH NFL training camps about to open, it's time for our annual game of 20 Questions. | | | Whitlock: NFL Truths - 07/20/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, ESPN On the eve of NFL training camps opening, Jason Whitlock has 10 NFL Truths for you. | | | Byrne's NFL head coach power rankings - 07/18/2006
Source: RealFootball365, RealFootball365, RealFootball365 The main thing these power rankings reveal is the coaching strength in the current NFL. Fantasy Impact: Stability at the top is important to any team's fantasy prospects. | | | Pasquarelli: Teams changing camp philosophies - 07/14/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, ESPN For a variety of reasons, teams have changed their approach to training camp, including cutting back two-a-day practices. Fantasy Impact: Fresher athletes could mean better performances during the season. However, it could also result in sloppy play from lack of practice. | | | Norwood already making an impact in Atlanta - 07/14/2006
Source: RealFootball365 Impacts: Jerious Norwood, Warrick Dunn At Mississippi State last season, Jerious Norwood ran between the tackles, around the ends, and under the radar. Fantasy Impact: Norwood is the heir-apparent to Dunn, and Duckett could be traded. Don't expect much from Norwood yet. | | | GOLDBERG ON FOOTBALL: Search moving toward final four in Tags' last month - 07/14/2006
Source: ESPN NEW YORK -- Five weeks before Paul Tagliabue's retirement date, there remain more than a dozen candidates ... Fantasy Impact: If McKay does get the job, there could be some instability in Atlanta. | | | Horton: Several teams face big question marks - 07/12/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, ESPN With training camps approaching, Gary Horton takes a look at 10 intriguing story lines for the 2006 season. Fantasy Impact: Intriguing story lines are always indications of big risks. Tread carefully. | | | Falcons' Crumpler had surgery, will be limited in camp - 07/11/2006
Source: ESPN Impacts: Alge Crumpler Three-time Pro Bowl tight end Alge Crumpler, the Atlanta Falcons' leading receiver in each of the past two seasons, could be limited in training camp and the preseason as he continues to recover from offseason shoulder surgery. Fantasy Impact: Crumpler is an elite TE, but being limited in camp will hurt his fantasy prospects. He could also be an injury risk. | | | Whispers from around the NFL - 07/10/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, ESPN Impacts: Jerious Norwood, Patrick Kerney, Justin Griffith Pro Football Weekly is hearing that Broncos rookie Jay Cutler has been as good as advertised this offseason. Fantasy Impact: Duckett will remain in Atlanta for now as a goal-line back, but that could change if Norwood performs well. Keeping some core players onboard should help the Falcons' fantasy prospects for a long time. Hartwig is an effective blocker and will help the running game in Carolina rise up to the top. Betts won't see the field enough to be a fantasy option, but he will be a hot pickup if Portis goes down. | | | No reason for Oakland to fret over No. 18's comments - 07/10/2006
Source: RealFootball365, ESPN Impacts: Randy Moss In a recent radio interview, Oakland Raiders wideout Randy Moss professed his hush-hush affection for the Baltimore Ravens and Atlanta Falcons. | | | Pasquarelli: Falcons poised to rebound in 2006 - 07/07/2006
Source: ESPN Last year, seven 2004 playoff teams failed to qualify for the postseason. If you're looking for one of those teams to rebound in 2006, try the Falcons, writes Len Pasquarelli. Fantasy Impact: Teams that rebound to make the playoffs usually put up good fantasy stats. Look for the Falcons to improve on last season's numbers. | | | Pasquarelli: Eagles, Vikes, Chargers on the rebound? - 07/07/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN Len Pasquarelli explains why the Eagles, Vikings and Chargers could bounce back this season after missing the postseason in 2005. Fantasy Impact: Like the Falcons, if the Eagles rebound they could post good fantasy numbers. Look for them to improve on last year as well. | | | Falcons' hire Polk to bolster scouting department - 07/06/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN The Atlanta Falcons have hired South Carolina State defensive tackles coach DeJuan Polk as a scout in the team's pro personnel department. | | | NFL Ultimate Playoffs - 06/27/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN, ESPN SportsCenter's ultimate playoffs are over and the Panthers are champions. Fantasy Impact: The Panthers being picked to win means they have a strong all-around team, good news for fantasy owners. | | | Offseason overview: NFC South - 06/21/2006
Source: ESPN, ESPN The Panthers are solid in all areas and once again should be the class of the NFC South, writes Matt Williamson. Fantasy Impact: The Panthers should dominate and be a great fantasy team. |
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