The last 3 years for the Atlanta Falcons have been a roller coaster ride like no other in the NFL. After having the most exciting player in the game, Michael Vick, for so many years, the Falcons are looking to move forward with QB sensation Matt Ryan.
Matt Ryan, for one, was a more than competent rookie quarterback, and lived up to the hype cast upon any number one draft pick. Roddy White was a third year wide receiver who was continually improving his trade, and finally had the breakout season that so many had predicted. Additionally, the critical signing of Michael Turner gave a huge boost to this team's offense. Turner was one of the best running backs in football last season, besting 1700 yards and 1700 touchdowns. This didn't surprise me much, since he was coming from San Diego, where he learned from Ladainian Tomlinson.
All of this led to a playoff berth for the Falcons, their first since the days of Michael Vick. With an acquisition of Tony Gonzalez in the off-season, things looked even better in 2009 than they did in 2008.
What must improve for the Falcons is the defense. The Falcons are giving up too many yards - while holding teams to under 20 points per game - the Falcons will need to stay on the field longer and control the clock.
The Falcons won both games, and now sit pretty with a 2-0 record. Week 3 will be a test for two reasons. First of all, the team plays away from home for the first time all season. In addition to heading on the road, they're also facing Tom Brady and the Patriots.
The Falcons were great at home in 2008, but struggled on the road. Secondly, a very tough opponent in the New England Patriots (you can be sure they'll be looking to make a statement after losing to the Jets) will bring out a very tough opponent determined to test the grit of this team. - 31493
Matt Ryan, for one, was a more than competent rookie quarterback, and lived up to the hype cast upon any number one draft pick. Roddy White was a third year wide receiver who was continually improving his trade, and finally had the breakout season that so many had predicted. Additionally, the critical signing of Michael Turner gave a huge boost to this team's offense. Turner was one of the best running backs in football last season, besting 1700 yards and 1700 touchdowns. This didn't surprise me much, since he was coming from San Diego, where he learned from Ladainian Tomlinson.
All of this led to a playoff berth for the Falcons, their first since the days of Michael Vick. With an acquisition of Tony Gonzalez in the off-season, things looked even better in 2009 than they did in 2008.
What must improve for the Falcons is the defense. The Falcons are giving up too many yards - while holding teams to under 20 points per game - the Falcons will need to stay on the field longer and control the clock.
The Falcons won both games, and now sit pretty with a 2-0 record. Week 3 will be a test for two reasons. First of all, the team plays away from home for the first time all season. In addition to heading on the road, they're also facing Tom Brady and the Patriots.
The Falcons were great at home in 2008, but struggled on the road. Secondly, a very tough opponent in the New England Patriots (you can be sure they'll be looking to make a statement after losing to the Jets) will bring out a very tough opponent determined to test the grit of this team. - 31493
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