Category: FalconAlley Squawk

Rah Talks Winning on MNF

September 18, 2024

Article and photo by Allison Smith

The weekly presser with Head Coach Raheem Morris started off jovial with Rah and the press in attendance. There were some complaints about the parking and walk, so it was pretty loose to begin, also, everyone is happier after a win.

D. Orlando Ledbetter began with several questions. He questioned injuries, Rah said there are none. Nate Landman was placed on IR before the game, Antonio Hamilton is healthy, just need to check him out at practice today and rest of the week. Everyone else is good, just game day bumps and bruises.

D Led also asked about evaluation of the new Offensive Coordinator, Zac Robinson, after 2 games. Rah commented that the first game wasn’t great, but the 2nd we did enough to win. Good calling, especially later in the game and the last 2 minutes. Overall ran the ball well, splitting with Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier. Offense is moving in the right direction, but want to continue to improve, in all phases. This Philadelphia game found the offense more in sync and Rah is very happy about how everyone is coming together. The offensive line had better protections, improvement in the run game and good protection of Kirk Cousins, especially in the last drive.

Asked if the team identity/slogan has come along yet (in the summer, Rah said that it would create itself, he isn’t creating a theme or slogan). Coach said again, this would be defined on the field. “That is where you make your identity.” But one thing he saw this week was finish, never give up. Rah was excited about the Monday night game overall, the environment was prime time, very hostile, everyone is against you, but this team continued to go, did not blink and fought til the end. The sideline was electric, didn’t get caught up in emotion, but supported each other. They got a stop on D, moved the ball down the field with little time, then overcame a penalty for the 49-yard extra point. All phases of the game, won this game in the last 2 minutes. 

Asked thoughts on the 2 penalties on Ray Ray McCloud and Drake London. Coach noted that Chauncey Gardner-Johnson is known for taunting, junk talking, but they practiced for that in the week. Micah Abernathy emulated Gardner-Johnson at practice, acting up, egging teammates on, crossing the line early, etc. In the game Gardner-Johnson was talking and grabbed Ray Ray’s mouthpiece and the referees caught Ray Ray reacting.

On Drake’s shooting into the air, which Drake apologized for even before Coach could get to him. Rah acknowledged that is not allowed, but Drake was caught up in the moment, celebrating with the Falcon fans he could see (likely shooting t-shirts into the stands). The entire team is super sensitive to the situation in the country right now and in the Atlanta area with the recent shooting at Apalachee High School. They had the football team from Apalachee at Flowery Branch and wore Apalachee t’s during warm ups before the Pittsburg game. There was no disrespect intended. Luckily neither of these penalties hurt the team, we want “to play fast and free and physical” but in the confines of the rules and obviously care about the sensitivity of the state of the country. 

Some reporters asked about certain players:

Bijan blocks on Monday night, “he is mature and really coming on as a protector.” He opened up the hole for Darnell Mooney’s touchdown. Had that massive chip block everyone is talking about. “That is the ultimate development for a young player, to be so well rounded, such a special runner, can catch and now blocking.” Coaches have worked on that with Bijan, but it is up to him to take it in and put in the work, which he has done.  

Kirko does not need critiquing or challenging, he is his own worst critic, analyzing how he played and noting what needs to be better. The coaches just need to provide feedback the way Cousins can take it in, he is already going to be harder on himself, it is up to the coaches to support him the way he needs it. 

OC Robinson and Kirk are working well together, but it ultimately “starts with me – to tell anyone what needs to improve – be open and honest to the coaches and players will be honest back.”

Kaden Elliss – “I tried to tell everyone before season, he’s a super star, with his physicality to rush the passer, run, play on or off line of scrimmage.”

Overall, per Rah, “it’s been a fun, learning process for us and players – this is how we go about our business.” The young guys, we hold accountable but are finding their own groove. Everyone holds each other accountable and each will get their own rhythm, while coaches set the goals each week.

The questions turned to the upcoming game and Rah’s thoughts on Patrick Mahomes. Coach said “he’s the best, back to back Super Bowl champions.” He is “smart, unique, fast, can buy time, knows your defense” and has been playing at the highest level. When your running back can give you 80 yards and your quarterback can give another 70, that is allot to defend. Then you add tight end, Travis Kelce to the mix, he is very “unique, a freak.” Rah said that no one can draw up his routes, he was not sure if Travis or Patrick even knew them or do they just happen? That makes it hard on defenders to replicate in practice. You have to play a long time to cover Kelce.

In order to defend KC, you have to create bad angles, you have to keep Mahomes in the pocket and from the designed runs. Do not over play the second play. Focus your tackling approach – when he is in the pocket versus when he is a runner and out in the open, but don’t assume he is going to slide. You will need to make Mahomes uncomfortable/frustrated in the pocket. “But in the end, it is about us executing our own business.” May have to accept what Mahomes and Kelce can do, so do make sure no one else gets anything. Rah compared it to playing Michael Jordan, he’s going to get his 30, but stop Scotty Pippen and Ron Harper.

Even being back to back Super Bowl champions, each year you have to hit reset. Kansas City has played allot of football, mastered how much rest and readiness needed. They are really impressive, from Andy Reid down.  

Rah has not heard if Taylor Swift will be attending the game in Atlanta on Sunday night. He joked that he hasn’t heard anything from his daughter, but she may not be a big fan anymore…..then asked, with a light in his eye and laugh, “Now Swifties, don’t come after her, she is only 8.”

As far as the first 5 games or the September stretch that media and fans are well aware of and overanalyzing – Monday night in Philly, Sunday night at home to begin 3 games in 12 days, including two of the NFC South 2-0 teams coming in. Rah simply replied, “I just know KC is up next. I don’t look ahead or at the big picture. Focus on what is in front of you.”

“We can’t read our own articles (Week 1 we were horrible, week 2, we are the greatest). Each week is its own entity, either we get better or we get worse. We focus on better each week. Pivot, persist, deal with it. We are not in pointing finger business in the getting better business.”

Rah Owt

#RiseUp

FalconAlleyOwt

Jobs on the Line as Falcons Host Jaguars

Article by Allison Smith

August 24, 2024

Photo courtesy of the Atlanta Falcons – Jay Bendlin

In the last pre-season game, Atlanta hosted Jacksonville. Many spots are already set, but many more are still on the bubble and making the decisions harder on Head Coach Raheem Morris and others. Many guys have stepped up in practice and in the first 2 pre-season games, making decisions harder. Then, of course, the addition earlier this week of pass rusher Matthew Judon and Safety Justin Simmons moved everyone in those positions down a spot. Both are expected to play in week one, although they just arrived in The ATL.

Per numerous insiders at 92.9 The Game that have been at Flowery Branch and exposed to training camp and the team, “This vibe is different.” Very happy and connected team, everything is feeling different than previous training camps. Coach Rah is constantly challenging players, but in a positive way. Everyone is clear on the standard that has been set.

The entire team came out dressed….complete prep for a regular game, from staying at the hotel, dressing out, warm ups – by team and location on the field, then went in for a “half time” then back out. After that, the guys not playing changed back into their sweats, but trying to get that routine as much ready as possible. In just over 2 weeks, it is real ball.

I don’t know that this third game changed anything for the coaches and their evaluations. There were no additional stand outs or surprises. In my opinion, this game reinforced some of the guys that were not on the bubble going into the game. It seems that many positions are so stacked, it will be interesting to see how the Falcon staff evaluates and decisions some of these positions.

My one sidetrack of the pre-season….while offense finally has a leader, defense is healthy and bolstered…..now, Special Teams is sketchy. Missed field goals and short punts. But we will see what the regular season holds.

Pre game discussions had Dave Archer with 65 on his must keep roster, will see if I can do any better on mine. We know this is going to be hard on the coaches and GM Terry Fontenot. They are headed to meet after the game….then get the roster to 53 by 4pm on Tuesday. Then on Wednesday, snatch some guys for the practice squad and hope to “hide” some diamonds in the rough from the rest of the league.

QB: Kirk Cousins, Michael Penix, Jr – need a third, don’t think he is currently on the team

O Line: Jake Matthews, Kaleb McGarity, Matthew Bergeron, Storm Norton, Chris Lindstrom, Drew Dalman (need additional here – but not an o line expert or fan)

WR: Drake London, Ray-Ray McCloud, KhaDarel Hodge, Casey Washington, Chris Blair

TE: Kyle Pitts, Charlie Woerner, John Fitzpatrick

RB: Bijan Robinson, Tyler Allgeier, Jase McClellan, Carlos Washington, Jr

Dline: Grady Jarrett, Ruke Orhorhoro, Zion Logue, Brandon Dorlus, Kentavius Street, David Onyemata, Zach Harrison, Ta’Quon Graham

CB: AJ Terrell; Natrone Brooks, Kevin King (at CB or S), Dee Alford, Jayden Price

LB: Troy Anderson, JD Bertrand, Lorenzo Carter, Arnold Ebiketie, Kaden Elliss, Matthew Judon, Nate Landman, DeAngelo Malone

S: Jessie Bates, Justin Simmons, Micah Abernathy, Richie Grant (DeMarcco Hellams – when he returns)

And our starting to be questionable ST: Liam McCullough, Younghoe Koo, Bradley Pinion

I have us at 48, clearly need more backups at Offensive and Defensive Line, but at least I got us close to a game day roster. We will see what happens on the way to Tuesday.

Blessings Are Key for the 2024 Atlanta Falcons Draft Class

Allison Smith – May 16, 2024

Another awesome interview by the voice of the Atlanta Falcons, Dave Archer. Today, Arch had the first three draft picks of the 2024 draft with him. Talk about some impressive young men. After the interview was over, I texted a friend, “I am fully on the Super Bowl train again.”

Archer introduced the guys and asked a few questions before asking fan submitted questions.

Asked about being drafted to Atlanta, Michael Penix, Jr. from the University of Washington called out that being drafted into the NFL in general is amazing, he grew up wanting to play in the NFL and here he is. He’s very excited to be in Atlanta.

Clemson Defensive Tackle, Ruke Orhorhoro noted that his is very familiar with Atlanta and is happy to not have to move far and learn a new place. He is ready to “put my big boy pants on” and get to working.

Bralen Trice, also from the University of Washington is ecstatic to come to Atlanta.

Asked how he will handle pressure on the field and relationship with quarterback Kirk Cousins:

Penix said that he doesn’t feel pressure any more. He played in the National Championship game and felt no pressure. It is the game that he loves and played since he was 5 years old.  He prepares himself mentally and physically for everything, then just goes about his business. He is ready for any moment. As for Kirk, he is planning to lead the team to win. “I am going to do my part and play my role.” Kirk is a veteran and a professional, there is allot to learn from him.

With a deep defensive line and lots of rotation, how are you feeling about your part:

Ruke is ready to contribute to the culture , excited to bring new energy to the team. With a big smile and energy beaming, Ruke noted that when he steps on the field, his energy level goes up and he cannot wait to get to work on and off the field. He is ready to learn from starting DT’s Grady Jarrett and David Onyemata, then put his own spin on what they teach.

Trice said this may sound corny, but, “I let go and let God.” He knows that God will handle the stress and pressure and Trice just does his job and trusts his teammates to do theirs.

Ruke commented on his style of play. He said it is fast, physical and aggressive. He is always ready to put his nose into stuff, is not scared of anything, and is ready to do the dirty work. He tries to model himself after Kansas City DT Chris Jones, he is tall and good with hands. Jones always sees what he hits. Ruke is preparing to slow down in his head and see the bigger picture.

Trice on preparing to be an aggressive edge rusher. He began by commenting on many edge rushers that just focus on the passing game and are going after the sack count. Trice plans to focus on the rushing game as much as the passing game. He wants to be aggressive and take on any situation. He models himself after the Las Vegas Raiders’ Max Crosby, he is all effort, relentless. Trice had 16 sacks in his last 28 games, sounds like he goes after the passer quite successfully.

Things may change entering the NFL now, but they are already planning how to prepare on game day.

Penix prays, has a favorite gospel song “God’s Got a Blessing,” then kicks other tunes to pump up. Penix’s song ensures that he keeps his head up, through many difficult circumstances over the years, he realizes that there are no excuses, you have to overcome and help the team win.

Ruke starts his time on the field with a prayer, then walks around alone and visualizes everything he did in practice and what he plans to do on the field that day.

Trice has a good prayer the night before. Then on gameday, after meetings and prep, he tries to slip in a 30-minute nap to refresh. We will see if he manages nap time in the busy NFL Sunday.

Asked what it means to have played in front of their families over the years, Trice said that seeing his Mom in the stands nearly makes him tear up. His Mom did allot for him and his siblings and is so happy, that motivates him to be great for her and the people around him and God.

Ruke asked his family not to come his freshman year at Clemson as he did not play and was mad about it. Parents still came, they were just happy to see him in his jersey on the sideline. That gave him inspiration and now gives him extra energy to play.

Penix talked about the many sacrifices his parents made and he has to pay them back, on the field and as a man. He always looks for his parents in the stands and knows that it is a true blessing to be able to play.

Penix is excited to work with Offensive Coordinator Zac Robinson and Quarterback Coach TJ Yates. They both have great personalities. Penix loves being in a QB room with coaches that can relate to you, your position and experience of being a rookie in the league. They are going to ensure Penix gets to where he wants to be.

Ruke is excited to play with Jarrett, he noted “it’s crazy, been watching film on him since freshman year and now I to get to soak up the knowledge from him directly.”

Trice played for new Defensive Coordinator Jimmy Lake when Lake was the head coach of U of W. Trice called Lake as soon as he got drafted saying, “Let’s turn it up.” Trice knows Lake’s style of coaching and how he leads a team. Lake knows how to flip the switch, be nasty and get everyone in same mindset.

Having come from the latest national championship contender, Penix said the major change is that this is your job now. In college, you have classes and football, here, football is everything. While you have more time to learn, you need to watch the veterans, they won’t tell or teach you everything, so you have to notice the small things and better your game on your own.

Clemson and U of W have been pumping guys into the league lately and Trice and Ruke have many resources to reach out to for assistance and questions. Clemson being D Line U, Ruke reached out to former teammates like Dexter Lawrence and Christian Wilkins who are always willing to provide advice, no question is a dumb question and Ruke has appreciated that.

Although everyone’s time in Atlanta has been limited, mostly at Flowery Branch, Trice noted that the folks around are always so nice and welcoming and trying to have conversations vs. many places, people don’t even look up to speak. Ruke is very familiar and knows the lay of the land and is planning to take the guys to all the good restaurants, “I like to eat” he says with a big smile.

If they could be as good at another sport as they are at football, Penix would be a golfer. He just started playing recently and isn’t that good, but gets really happy when he gets the ball on the green. It is a good sport that you can play for a long time. Ruke said he is already good at basketball, so he would do baseball, that is where the big bank is. Trice played tennis for 6 years and was pretty good, so he would continue tennis. It provides lots of cardio and movement and is addicting when you are good at it. Arch is concerned about starign Trice down across the tennis net, but is excited to tell Penix about all the great local golf courses.

And finally, the big question….what is your WHY?

Penix has two younger brothers and they have been looking up to him from a very young age. He noticed at 14, his brothers would come home from school talking about what their friends had said about him. He realized that his brothers were going to copy him, so he needed to be great on the field and a role model off the field. He wanted to show them that you can be strong and overcome adversity. Even though they are spread across the country, he wants to show them, every time he steps on the field, what they can also become, that adversity comes to everybody, but adversity can’t stop you.

Ruke plays for the shear love of the game. He loves every aspect, when your “legs are heavy, drives me to grind harder.” “If love and respect the game, it will love you back.”

Trice does it all for Mom. She set him up for success, sacrificed for him. He wants to take care of her. He loves the game, but first, plays for Mom.

All of the guys are super excited to step into and out of the tunnel for the first time, come onto the field, see the fans, the stadium view. Penix said he is excited to see the fans, run on the field and WIN A CHAMPIONSHIP.

We are with you Penix, we are with you.

#RISEUP #DIRTYBIRDS

FALCONALLEY OWT

Brian Hill – Player Guest on with Dave Archer on 92.9 The Game

September 28, 2020

Dave Archer started with “What is the mindset of the team right now?”  Brian Hill quietly replied, “Only mindset is to turn this thing around and win on Monday.” Speaking of the Monday Night Football game in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

The running backs combined for 135 yards on the ground “We definitely want to contribute to the team.” Hill noted that there are things “we can learn and improve on,” but feel good about their production so far.

Asked about the success change from the first 3 quarters to the 4th quarter, the Bears made some adjustments to the run game, “but it is more us and missed opportunities.  Us stopping us.” 

Ito Smith and Hill have been together for a couple of years, now, Archer asked Hill how Todd Gurley blended in with them.  He replied, “He blended in well from the jump,” even from just virtual meetings before we met in person. So when we met in person, already felt like a teammate.

Asked about the evolution of his game: My rookie year was a struggle and a learning experience.  Over time, I have learned how to work harder.  “Blessing to learn that, wouldn’t have the work ethic I now have.”

What did you do to work on yourself and change your body and running style? Hill replied that he didn’t focus on his weight.  Hill focused on running and cutting, with or without the ball.  His admitted downfall was his ability to change direction, so he’s focused on footwork drills.

Arch asked, “Did you have to re-teach yourself patience?”  “Yes, back in Wyoming, knew I was the guy and if you missed something, you had the next chance.”  In the NFL, Hill was first trying to make a big play to earn that top spot, “learned that I don’t need the big play every time.” 

Back to the game and in regards to Hill’s big 35-yard touchdown.  Hill noted, “after offsides gave us the 3rd and 5, the play call was a run and while I was surprised, I knew the Bears would be surprised.”  So as soon as there was an opening from my blockers, I shot through and sped through for the touchdown.

Hill has focused on his receiving skills.  He’s worked hard for 4 years to improve his hands.  He admitted to “kicking myself on the 3rd down pass conversion.”  After watching the film, just have focus more.  “I will continue to be on the jugs before practice and get more catching reps in.”

“We know as a team we have to do better, but we have to look and fix ourselves.  Continue what we are doing well and improve what we are not doing well.”

Hill wrapped with “We have started off well the last two weeks, we just need to work on finishing.” 

Dan Quinn Coach’s Show – Bears 30/Falcons 26

September 28, 2020

Dan Quinn joined Dave Archer on 92.9 The Game for the weekly Coach’s Show.

Over the last 2 weeks, it has been tough. This is as challenged as you can get, but lessons are here to be learned.

The coaches are talking to the players about the difference in playing hard vs. playing well.  This was not a tale of two halves, but a tale of the 4th.  It started with a missed a kick, then 3 and outs and inability to stop the Bears. 

Quinn was pleased that the Falcons “Ran the ball better, defense was much improved on 3rd down. Just need “lessons of finishing, can’t miss those.”

A coach knows the team and this locker room is tough enough to get fixed.

With so many defenders and leaders out Sunday, as well as Julio Jones, is it difficult to find experience to compete?  How deep you have to dive is a double-edged sword.  Many of these players are getting way more playing time than they normally would at this time, so you can see what they can handle.  “This will pay dividends in the future.  Many may be playing this week.”  There is always stuff to learn and gain and grow from in loss. 

Asked about the lack of experience, with rookies and practice squad guys coming up, could they have tightness creeping in?  Quinn said, “Not really,” players should be making the plays that come your way, You always look back at the throw or tackle or turnover missed.  “You don’t get multiple chances – focus issues.  Have to close it.”

When you look at last two weeks and try to find root of trouble, how do you break the game down?  Quinn replied that they look for the turnover margin – to gain a possession or protect the ball, explosive plays, as those flip the field; then break off and deep dive review those.  Last week, they focused on the run game and that was improved.  Quinn commented “Always some part that needs to improve.”  Yeah, we just need to tweak that one thing to be better.

Quinn noted the team will really work on the 4 minute offense this week.

Do you worry about the psyche of the team? “When you don’t get what you want, emotions come through – angry, upset.” The team has been challenged, and will take the lessons from the L’s and are going to be able to close it.  Each game is a different story.

Quinn complimented the offensive line and the run game.  Todd Gurley and Brian Hill had successful games.  Gurley’s physicality has increased, pushing guys out of the way.  Gurley and Hill both run really hard.  Hill has really transitioned and worked really hard at his craft, facing adversity but changed his narrative. Calvin Ridley worked really hard in the off season, with Julio in or out, he is taking the next step and being really aggressive. 

Darqueze Dennard started at nickel, but with AJ Terrell out, moved out to corner back Sunday.  “He is a rare competitor.”  Even in practice, he picked off in front of Russell Gage, but then coached him up to tell him how and why he was able to.

Mykal Walker was in for Foye Oluokun.  Certainly encouraged, felt his speed and length in man to man coverage.  Jaylinn Hawkins making an impact on special teams, but good hitter on defense.  Marlon Davidson had his first game and was making some plays and will get better.

Asked about what will happen if Younghoe Koo cannot go this weekend.  Quinn said that Sterling Hofrichter can do some kicking.  Also have a punter and kicker on the practice squad, “Will see how everyone looks as the week progresses.  All of the practice squad guys get good practice during the week so everyone is ready if needed. “