Head coach Dan Quinn spoke to 92.9 The Game’s Carl Dukes and Mike Bell Tuesday afternoon. They discussed the week 1 loss to the Seattle Seahawks.
Quinn commented that in all 3 phases of the game (offense, defense, special teams), “We didn’t perform like we wanted to.” Specifically, on fourth downs on both sides of the ball, the results were not favorable for the Falcons and became deciding factors of the game. The Seahawks were 1 for 1 on 4th down – for a long touchdown, while the Falcons were 0 for 4, including a fumble.
Quinn did comment on the fumble specifically, noting that was the real game changer. “The look and opportunity was there” for the Falcons, unfortunately a Seattle defender got his hat on the ball and knocked it out. With 9:41 to go in the 3rd quarter, Seattle had extended their lead to 21/12 over the Falcons. On 4th down, the Falcons faked a punt, which led to the turnover, giving the Seahawks the ball on the Atlanta 36.
DQ thought that overall, the offensive line played well together. DQ noted that the short yardage game needs to be in order, have to be able to execute. “We have the right people, so needs to be executed better.” They rotated JamesCarpenter and rookie Matt Hennessy in at Guard. “Both had good points in the Seattle game,” and their rotation will continue until there is a stand out.
The run game started strong, but needed to continue, offensive balance, throughout the game. But once you get behind, the run game is difficult to keep up. DQ did comment that new addition, Todd Gurley, came out strong and is a very physical runner and will be featured going forward.
Defensively, “We have to create take-aways.” DQ always wants to win the take-away numbers, but this week there was the fake punt for a fumble and the end of the game INT, while forcing no turnovers. The defense “needs to give the offense a short field, or score on defense.”
Quinn also commented on the no call on the helmet to helmet hit by Jamal Adams on Russell Gage, Quinn talked to the officials at the time, while medical staff was gathering and looking at Gage. The referee with the best angle thought Adams turned his shoulder to the side, so no ‘head to head’ was determined. Gage’s head was down heading into the tackle, which was a disadvantage. It was determined that Adams tried to make a move at the end, so no call.
On the lack of fans in the stand, DQ said that it was definitely worthwhile to have scrimmages in Mercedes Benz Stadium before the season began. That way, the Falcons were use to the quiet and low rumble of the “crowd noise.” He noted that it was a very different experience because you could really hear players yelling at each other and other sideline noise. DQ said “It is great to be back playing and appreciate all the sacrifices of everyone to get to this state.”
The interview wrapped with Quinn noting that they learned from Sunday’s game and will evaluate what actions to take next. Before the game, “We didn’t know what the tackling would look like. Now we know all that pre-work worked and will focus on other things.” He was pleased with a “fantastic camp.” After ‘Tell the Truth Monday,’ the will get back to it and turn their focus on Wednesday to the next game, in Dallas, Texas.
Quinn ended with, “We have a hard-working team, with the mindset and energy we want, now to turn it into wins.”
Photos Courtesy of the Atlanta Falcons – Dakota Williams, Kyle Hess, & Rob Foldy
I could title this “Too Little, Too Late,” but feel like I will need that later as I saw no change in the play from last year to this. The score and final stats are not the true story of this game. The Seahawks were playing off late in the game, when they knew it was a wrap.
The National Anthem is played by saxophonist, Mike Phillips and the Atlanta Falcons team and coaches stood locked arm in arm. The roof is open providing sun and warmth to the field.
Atlanta won the toss and received the ball. Brandon Powell watched the ball go out of the back of the end zone and the Falcons begin the 2020 season on the 25. Todd Gurley gets the first touch of the season and goes left for 6 yards. Gurley makes a big break up the middle for a 21 yard gain. Another handoff to Gurley goes for a 1 yard loss. From the shotgun, Matt Ryan has a 5 receiver set, but cannot connect with Julio Jones in coverage. Ryan finds Calvin Ridley along the sideline, who ensures to tap and drag all of his toes for a confirmed 19 yard gain. Back to Gurley for a short gain.
After a 3 step drop, Ryan is dropped, as he tosses the ball to the ground and is called for intentional grounding. Gurley was not looking for the pitch, causing the confusion and forcing the 3rd down. On 3rd and 16, Ryan lobs the ball over the left side to Jones, who was standing short of the first down marker. Younghoe Koo comes on to successfully kick a 49-yard field goal.
At the 11:11 mark in the first quarter, the Falcons lead 3/0.
Russell Wilson brings the Seattle offense out to begin on their 23. The first play, TAKK MCKINLEY comes out and sacks Wilson for a huge loss of 9 yards. Russell then finds Tyler Lockett for a big gain, leaving a 3rd and 4 near the 30. Wilson finds former Carolina Panther and thorn in the Falcons’ side, Greg Olsen, for the first down. He is covered by Darqueze Dennard, who was covering Lockett on the previous play.
A quick run on 1st down gains 4 yards. Wilson drops back and hits Chris Carson for another first down, immediately stopped by Keanu Neal on his first hit of the year. Grady Jarrett pressures Wilson, but he scrambles out and finds Carson for 6 yards where Foye Oluokun stops him. A rushing first down moves the Seahawks to the Falcons 38. Wilson scrambles and hits Lockett near the sideline, again, covereed by 34. Isaiah Oliver has DK Metcalf covered perfectly so that Wilson can’t throw his way. A holding call is called on an offensive lineman, backing the Seahawks up.
On 2nd and 15, GRADY JARRETT comes around the left side and levels Wilson. Now it is 3rd and 23, back across the 50, Wilson lobs it near the 10 for an incompletion. Pass interference is called on Ricardo Allen, giving the Seahawks a freebie at the 10. I won’t even comment on this BS call. Wilson hits a receiver on the right, but he is stopped by Clemson rookie, AJ Terrell, before he can reach the end zone. On 2nd and goal, Wilson dumps it to Carson on the right side for the touchdown.
At the 4:43 mark in the first quarter, the Seahawks take the lead 7/3.
Ryan and the O begin again at the 25, play fake to Gurley, Ryan hits Jones for a first down……he catches at the 40, then crosses to the Seahawks 47. After another fake to Gurley, but nothing is open and Ryan passes to Gurley, who is stopped at the line. On 2nd and 10, from the shotgun, Ryan tosses to Gurley who gains 9 yards by speeding to the right side. At the line, Ryan hands off to Brian Hill behind the line and he is stopped by Bobby Wagner still, behind the line. Fourth down and going for it. Three set receivers to the right, but the line cannot hold up, the Seahawks are in Ryan’s face immediately from the right side and knocks the pass out of the air. Turnover on downs.
Seattle starts at their own 40 and Wilson passes to DJ Metcalf for 13 yards, where Oliver stops him. Then Wilson runs up the left for 28 yards, finally stopped by Deadrin Senat. First and 10 from the Falcons 19, a quick dump to Carson on the left and antother Seahawk touchdown. There was literally no one on the left side to touch Carson.
With 53 seconds left in the first quarter, the Falcons are now down 14/3.
Back on the field, Ryan hands to Hill on the left side for a quick first down. The offensive line holds up forever, Ryan finds Hayden Hurst at the Seahawks 34 for a first down. He zoomed down the field and made an awesome stretching catch.
The first quarter ends, with the Falcons driving, but down 11 points.
Hill gets the call, wide around the left side for minimal game. Second and 4, with 2 tight ends, Ryan finds Ridley at the first down marker, then he bounces back in to gain another 10+ yards. First and 10 just inside the 20, a sidepass to Ridley for a 1 yard loss. Second and 11 with a 3 receiver triangle set to the right. Behind good blocking, Ryan has time to find Russell Gage who pushes to the 4-yard line. From the 4, Gurley gets the handoff twice before the Seahawks call a time out. Following the timeout, Gurley gets the call on 3rd and goal and makes his first touchdown as an Atlanta Falcon! After a Matt Gono penalty, the extra point is moved back and Koo misses.
With 11:25 to go in the first half, the Falcons are down by 5.
Travis Homer gets the first handoff on this Seattle drive, he is stopped at the line by McKinley and Oliver. On 2nd and 10, Wilson finds Homer for a pass on the right side, he is immediately stopped by Neal for a 3-yard gain. On 3rd and 7, Wilson can’t find anyone and GRADY JARETT gets his second sack of the game. Downfield was covered well, particularly by Terrell and Oliver, providing the line time to get to Wilson. The Seahaws are forced to punt.
The Falcons’ offense takes the field at their own 25. Ryan fakes to Gurley, under pressure he tosses toward the sideline. On 2nd and 10, Ryan hands to Gurley for a 4-yard gain up the middle. Ryan finds Gage across the middle, across the 40-yard line for another first down. Another fake to Gurley, but no one is open and Ryan has to toss the ball out of bounds again. A quick short pass to Gage along the right side for limited gain. On 3rd and 6, Ryan is in the shotgun and is immediately sacked from the right side by Jamal Adams.
SterlingHofrichter punts 55 yards to the 8, where the returner initially escapes Olamide Zaccheaus, but then is caught from behind after a 15 yard return.
Wilson begins the drive with another completion to Will Dissly for 5 yards. Carlos Hyde runs up the middle and was stopped by Allen after a first down. From the 37, Wilson fakes a handoff, cannot find a receiver, then scrambles up the middle to the line of scrimmage. On 2nd and 8, Wilson drops back and delivers to Lockett for a few yards, stopped by Oluokun. A 3rd and 2 near the 50, Wilson under pressure flings it low to Metcalf being covered perfectly by Oliver, it is incomplete. A punt to the 11 is caught by Powell.
With 4 minutes remaining in the half, the Falcons have a false start by Ridley, half the distance to the goal. First and 15 from the 5, Ryan is in the shotgun and hands to Ito Smith, who gains 4 yards up the middle. On 2nd and 11, Ryan tosses it to Hurst, who was hit as the ball arrived and could not haul in the pass. The defender was there early, but games are not called equally. Ryan throws to Jones, short of the first down. After only a minute off the clock and the Falcons have to punt back to Wilson.
Seattle start the final 2 ½ minutes on their own 40. The Seahawks gain a quick 4 yards as Jarrett and McKinely converge to make the stop.
After the 2 minute warming, Wilson tries to call the D offsides, instead backs his own team up to a 2nd and 11 at the 39. He throws a screen to the left to Carson, who is immediately stopped. The Falcons call time out to stop the clock at 1:52. On 3rd and 6, Wilson drops back and as pressure is coming close (McKinley), he passes over to #25 who was knocked out of bounds by Deion Jones. The Seahawks are forced to punt.
The Falcons take over the ball at their own 9 with a minute and a half to go. A quick pass that Luke Stocker cannot hold onto. Second and 10, Ryan hands to Gurley who gets exactly to the first down marker. Ryan drops back and finds Jones in the middle of the field just across the first down marker, but the pass is ruled incomplete. With 1:08 to go, the Falcons throw to Ridley, who has room, so does not run out of bounds and gains 22 yards. There was as defensive penalty that was declined, but stopped the clock. At the 41, Ryan dumps to Gurley, but there is another flag on the play. Ridley is called for an illegal formation. Christian Blake was the target, but Shaquille Griffin was called for PI, finally a call against the Seahawks, and an automatic first down. With 43 seconds to go, Ryan throws an incompletion. On 2nd and 10, near midfield, a blitz off the edge, Gurley saves Ryan’s life with a block and Ryan finds Gage. A quick pass toward Gage, is out of his reach, but stops the clock. On 2nd and 10 with 23 seconds, Ryan finds Gage, but the ball pops back out – no catch. Now, 3rd and 10 from the Seattle 40, Ryan lofts it to Gage over the middle for a first down, within field goal range. Gage was hit helmet to helmet, but no call. Gage had to come off the field after a medical time out.
Seattle now calls a time out. It is 1st and 10 with 12 seconds to go and the Falcons have the ball on the Seattle 30. A three tight end package comes in to move the ball to Koo’s favorite spot on the field. With 3 seconds to go, the Falcons call a time out and Koo comes on for a 49-yard field goal.
The Falcons go to half, down by 2, Seattle 14, Atlanta 12.
The Seahawks began the 2nd half on their own 25. Wilson hands off to Carson who easily gains 11 yards along the right side. Wilson drops back and throws to a wide open Metcalf, but he cannot haul in the pass. Oliver was in coverage, but not close enough. On 2nd and 10 Wilson finds Dissly near the sideline for a 3 yard gain, shoved out quickly by McKinley. From the shotfun, Wilson slings to Metcalf, who catches the ball, extends the ball over the first down marker with Oliver clinging to him. Carlos Hyde runs into Dante Fowler after a 2-yard gain. One 2nd down, Wilson drops back to Jacob Hollister for a first down, where Neal locks him up. Lockett gains 4 yards before being stopped by Allen. The Falcons had 12 men on the field, so it is now 1st and 5 from the Falcons’ 38. Wilson has allot of time, but everyone is covered. McKinley tips the ball to make it an errant throw. Hyde is wrapped up by Jarrett for a 1 yard gain. On a 3rd and 4, Wilson tosses back to Homer and is met by Jones and a slew of other Falcons. Jones saw the play develop and sped to that side to make the play. On 4th and 5 from the 38 yard line, Wilson finds Metcalf who beats Oliver for a 38 yard touchdown.
With 9:41 to go in the 3rd quarter, Seattle extends their lead to 21, Atlanta 12.
Ryan and the offense return to the 25 and a Gurley hand off goes for a 2-yard gain. On 2nd down, another Gurley handoff for another 2 yards. Hurst makes the reception for 4 yards, causing a 4th and 2. A fake punt, Sharrod Neasman goes up the middle, gains the first down, but fumbles the ball and Seattle takes over on the Atlanta 36.
Seattle rushes for a couple of yards. Wilson throws on the run to Lockett for a first down at the Falcons’ 23, where he is wrapped up by Oluokun. Terrell forces Carson out of bounds at the 19. After a Seattle timeout, Moore takes the handoff, drops it and picks it back up and still moves the ball to the 7. Oluokun was looking to snatch up the ball, while 3 other defenders missed making a tackle. The next play is a quick pass to the wide open Olsen standing in the end zone, alone.
With 5 minutes remaining in the 3rd quarter, the Seahawks extend their lead 28 to 12.
Atlanta, begins again, at the 25. Ryan, from the shotgun, throws the ball up to Jones, for a 44 yard reception. A double stop and step gives Jones the opening he needed to jet. From the Seattle 31, a shovel pass to Gurley for a minimal gain. Ryan was being hit by Adams, but Jones still makes the reception, pushing away a defender and catching the ball with his right hand and left thigh. Another first down. Gurley has a 1 yard rush. Another reception by Jones, a battle then a few yards. Gurley gains another few yards on the left side. Fourth and 2 at the 10. Ryan fakes a handoff, goes running to the right and ends up getting sacked and turning the ball over on downs. Again.
On their first play, Lockett makes a 16-yard reception, stopped by Terrell. Damontae Kazee shoves Lockett out of bounds after another 20-yard reception.
With one quarter to go, the Seahawks are driving and lead the Falcons 28/12.
Terrell makes the stop on Moore. Lockett gets past Jones for another first down. From the 31, Hyde is stopped by Oluokun aftere a minimal gain. On 2nd and 9 from the 30, there is a false start, moving them back to 3rd and 14. Then Olsen jumps. 3rd and 19. Wilson from the 40, is scrambling, runs to the sideline under durress from Jarrett. A holding penalty on the offense moves the Seahawks even farther back. Second down and 29 from midfield, Wilson completes a pass to Lockett near the 40. Now a 3rd and 19, Wilson connects with Freddy Swain, but not enough for a first down. A 46-yard field goal adds another 3 to the Seattle lead.
With 11:19 to go in the game, Seattle 31 – Atlanta 12.
Ryan starts with a big pass up the middle to Jones, then another on the sideline to Gage. Suddenly, the Falcons are at the 50, then a quick shot to Ridley along the right side for another first down. Another great foot drag by Ridley. From the 36, another successful pass to Jones in the middle to put the Falcons in the red zone. Then WIDE OPEN CALVIN RIDLEY is in the end zone. Griffin was knocked down by his own man, leaving the speeding Ridley in the end zone alone. Hurst was not able to catch the 2-point conversion as he was covered before the ball was thrown by Adams, another no call.
The Falcons trail 31-18 with 9:29 remaining in the game.
An aggressive defense stops the Seahawks for a 3 yard loss. A quick pass to Olsen leaves them with a 3rd and 9. Seattle can’t make the reception and are forced to punt.
Powell returns the punt a few yards and the Falcons’ offense will start on their own 30. Ryan steps up and throws to Ridley for a first down. Across the middle, Jones makes another first down reception. At the Seattle 42, Ryan hits Hurst who makes it out of bounds to stop the clock. Ryan throws just over Hurst at the 15, where Griffin tips the ball off target. Ryan delivers a rocket behind Ridley, nearly causing an interception. On 4th and 3 at the 32, Ryan throws outside to Ridley, who can not hold on to the pass.
Seattle takes over the ball at the Falcons’ 35. They rush up the middle for a single yard gain. The Falcons take a time out. Wilson throws 37 yards up to Metcalf, who has great separation from Terrell, Kazee tackles and takes him out of bounds. Olsen makes the next reception for 4 yards before Kazee knocks him out. Hyde gains 2 yards as the Falcons take their final timeout. After a fake handoff, Wilson is scrambling, nearly sacked by McKinley, throwing under a DB, Wilson still makes the pass. From the 3, Homer rushes for a yard. Hyde goes up the middle for another Seattle touchdown.
With still 3:45 to play in the game, Seattle is up by 20, 38 to 18.
Gage escapes a defender, then leaps over another. Hill rushes for 5 yards. On 2nd and 5, Ryan finds Ridley for another first down, inbounds. Ryan delivers to Gage again, just passed the first down marker. The clock stops for the 2 minute warning.
Ryan dumps the ball over to Smith – who is immediately blown up after gaining 1 yard. Then throws short up the middle to Smith who is nearly killed. On 3rd and 7, Ryan finds Ridley over the middle for a first down. From the 6, Ryan drops back and throws to Smith near the line of scrimmage on the left edge. From the 7, Ryan lofts the ball way into the air, over Gage and out of the side of the end zone. 3rd and goal, Ryan starts to run, then throws to Ridley, just inside the goal line. After a successful extra point, the Falcons are down 38/25 with half a minte to go.
The onsides kick is successful, Oluokun picks the ball out of the air right at the 10 yard mark. The Falcons have the ball at the 46. Ryan finds Gage on the sideline for another first down. From the Seattle 38, Ryan throws into the end zone for an interception by Quandre Diggs. Hurst is the closest Falcon to the ball.
With 19 seconds to go, Seattle takes a knee to end the game.
Falcons Unplugged is special PSL owners call, where PSL owners get to listen and watch Dave Archer interview a player or staff member of the Atlanta Falcons. Tonight, Owner Arthur Blank was on the hot seat. Archer introduced the call, but all questions were submitted by PSL owners before the call.
Mr. Blank immediately began answering fan questions. He said he is most excited that the 2020 season is actually happening. Mr. Blank saluted the NFL and doctors and teams and medical council to ensure everyone is healthy and safe, although he is definitely disappointed to not be able to see and have fans in attendance.
The team is excited and ready to go. They have had a really good, al biet odd, training camp. Mr. Blank noted that Head Coach Dan Quinn did a great job keeping in touch with the players via Zoom or in person. The coaching staff and players have all become experts in technology, and now on the field, they have a great energy and they are all ready to play.
With a great team, bulked up in free agency and the draft, Mr. Blank expects the team to pick up from 6-2 record at the end of the 2019 season and to play at that level and above at beginning of this 2020 season. In speaking with MattRyan, Matt feels strongly that we have the offense needed to win games. Our Defense ended ranked 8th last season, so they can continue to give us a competitive edge and give the ball quickly back to the offense.
One of the biggest challenges during COVID-19 is making sure everyone is healthy. Having a large family, 6 children and 6 grandchildren, Mr. Blank’s first focus was trying to keep everyone safe. Followed closely by trying to ensure the team is healthy and following all of the best protocols. Falcons CEO RichMcKay is very involved in the decision making for the NFL, so we are on the front line of making sure the Falcons are all healthy. We are hoping to have some fans in the building in October. But we will protect our fans and ensure they are safe first.
The NFL requires a family to own the organizations/teams, so the ownership is on the owner to take the financial impact of no fans and decisions can be made with the good of the fan, not a corporation in mind. The good news is, the golf business is booming. So, Mr. Blank is financially ok with the no fans….for now. The loss of revenue will not changes the aggressiveness in the team, going after the best players, paying players, or any changes to the stadium and services once re-openend. MercedesBenzStadium continues to be ranked number 1 or 2 in all fan experience polls.
Mr. Blank serves on the NFL social justice league, organizations including the active and retired players, and numerous other committees and organizations. He remains very in touch with all of the discussions and will be truly listening to the social injustice issues that are facing America today. The NFL overall is making huge financial investments in communities and organizations helping those communities. In Atlanta, there is a social action committee on the team, made up of players that volunteered because of experiences or desire to serve. These players steer discussions to affect their home communities, shoulder to shoulder with the team and NFL to affect change. It is not about making instant change, but continuing to move the ball down the field toward constant change.
Mr. Blank encouraged everyone to ensure that they vote in the elections. He quoted a discussion with the late JohnLewis, “The most significant protest you can do is to vote.”
To be an Atlanta Falcon, you have to be a good person and give back to the community, not just a good player. As an example, all of the current Team Captains are deeply involved in the community, through donations, volunteering, creating their own charities, and going into the community to lift them up and build partnerships.
Mr. Blank continues his support and praise of Dan Quinn. He noted that midway through the season last year, Quinn recognized and made the change to the coaching staff and some player reassignments. He realized he had spread himself too thin. Quinn has kept to the decisions made late last season, to not be diluted, and let the responsibilities lie where they were. Quinn really believes and lives Brotherhood, it isn’t just a cool slogan.
Although Matt Ryan is the franchise quarterback, the plan for the future, is to possibly play into his 40’s. Mr. Blank commented that Matt is in the best shape of his career, he’s smart and motivated. He is moving quickly and always taken excellent care of himself, still putting up Hall of Fame statistics. He is a leader on the team and becomes more dominant as time progresses. He is always early in and late out of Flowery Branch. One of the best, if not the best, draft move the Falcons ever made. At some point in time, there will be a discussion with Matt and make a mutual decision the years are coming to an end.
Joking with General Manager Thomas Dimitroff, Rich McKay, and Dan Quinn, Mr. Blank suggested cutting the salary of some of the defenders since they will greatly enjoy getting to knock Tom Brady around twice a season, as the new Tampa Bay quarterback. He reiterated that he was joking. But what a joy for those left over from the SuperBowl season to see Brady twice now.
Asked about the rivalry with the New Orleans Saints, Mr. Blank commented that the Falcons still have the win advantage over them, and it is a heated rivalry, no matter the yearly record. It is always very competitive. The NFC South is always competitive and will be even more so this year. Carolina has coaching and quarterback changes, the ever-consistent Drew Brees, and the New England transplants into Tampa Bay.
After purchasing the team in 2001, Mr. Blank has changed personally from his early ownership days. H now realizes that the highs are never as high as the lows are low. “The losses are like daggers, especially certain kinds of losses.” The wins are great, but you have to turn around in a day or two to prepare for the next game. As an early owner, he would take everything home and personally, really feel deeply for the fans, players, families, but realized you have to let it go and not let it ruin or interlope into relationships and daily life. And here I am still pouting and being mean to people have the week after a loss.
Mr. Blank has also learned that you cannot just change coaches on a whim, there is so much related to the head coach, to the rest of the staff, the players that fit into that scheme. There is so much transition time, you need to value the continuity in coaching and the general managers and other staff. Everyone is still held accountable, but let them gel and create consistency. The most successful teams over time have maintained consistent leadership and tweaked other things.
Mr. Blank referenced his book, “Good Company,” noting his 6 core values, and his goal that he learned from his mother, Molly, “You do the right things, for the right reasons and live with the consequences.” Mr. Blank said that, “I live my life with purpose.”
Mr. Blank realizes his responsibility to the fans. Fans do not only give their money, but their time, their support, their enthusiasm – and he wants to bring rings to the city and fans and team.
Mr. Blank ended the call with a “Thank you – Stay Safe and May God bless you all.”
I could not be prouder to call Mr. Arthur Blank my owner.
Atlanta Falcons President and CEORich McKayand ownerArthur Blankheld a press conference Friday, December 27, 2019 to discuss the announcement earlier in the day. The Falcons site and Twitter announced that the team would retainDan Quinnas Head Coach,Thomas Dimitroffas General Manager. Rich McKay will take on an increased role in football operations, where he had been mainly overseeing the new stadium. Raheem Morriswill be the Defensive Coordinator for 2020. There was no mention of other coaches, offensively or other defensive/position coaches.
Mr. Blank began the press conference by stating that the last 2 seasons have been a great disappointment and as the steward of the team, he understands everyone’s disappointment. He noted that overall since the drafting ofMatt Ryan, the Falcons have been 4thin the NFC and 7thin the NFL overall in winning percentage. He noted that consistently is important, with the right things and for the right reasons. Mr. Blank recurring brought up the difference in the first half to the second half of the season. Mr. Blank noted several other leading reasons for the retention of Quinn and Dimitroff.
1-Falcons had two/three-ish new coordinators. Quinn wasn’t fully aware/prepared what all that would take, with defensive coordination and running the team overall and connecting all of the other moving parts. That is when Quinn made the decision that he needed to just be the head coach and gave up the defensive coordination.
2-The change at defensive coordinator also changed the defensive scheme, making the defense simpler, communication was better, moved some players around where they could win more easily. “Round pegs in round holes and square pegs in square holes” as Mr. Blank said. And also saw young talent emerge.
3-The players played hard for the coach and the organization, even when they may not have been in the best position in the first half of the year. With the coaching/position changes, they were able to perform better.
4-Players believe and support the Brotherhood, each other, the coach, and the organization overall.
With the 2017 opening of the stadium, leading the NFL in stadium experience each year, Rich McKay will now be at The Branch at least 4 days a week, working directly with Quinn and Dimitroff, who will now report directly to McKay, instead of Mr. Blank. Mr. Blank will still be in charge and involved, but McKay will be a sounding board and leader with great experience and wisdom with his 25 years of GM and the like experience.
Rich McKay – “We look at this season as one we will not celebrate, but one we can build on.” You can see there was a complete change in the 2ndhalf of the season, lots of credit to Dan Quinn, his coaches, and the players. McKay noted this is not a complete turn-around like he has ever seen before. Usually, play will fall off as you are eliminated from the playoffs, but this team has played better and better. “We looked at studies on consistency, what gives us the best chance to win 2020 and beyond.“
Mr. Blank, “We are about winning games and winning championships. It is my belief that this personnel will get us there more quickly than other decisions we could have made.”
Mr. Blank sounded a smidgeon frustrated at the suggestion of constant or quick coaching changes, noting several teams that had down years, stayed the course, and were winning again. He believes that keeping everyone in sync, keeping coaches and management together, not having draft choices from a previous regime. He believes this is the team and the players that can win over time, noting San Francisco, New Orleans, and Carolina tough/competitive wins on the road. The defense moved from 31stto 6thin the league. He reviewed Dan Quinn’s self-awareness and willingness to step down from DC and HC to just HC and other changes he was willing to admit and make.
Mr. Blank’s only criticism of Quinn is that he made changes and decisions too late. And “I don’t think he will make those errors again.” McKay will help with that, meeting with Dimitroff and Quinn on these type decisions. “The whole mid-season coaching change has little value.” If you feel like the staff is going to make changes – as you started to see in the 2ndhalf of the Seattle game. Mr. Blank stated that you could see that the players were committed. When you see major changes and wins in 7 games, not just part of a game. Mr. Blank believes that Quinn has learned from that and will make adjustments quicker going forward, including mid-game. It is a great credit to these players to make the change, accept the change, and continue to play at 100% throughout the season.
Quinn will continue to have the final decision on the 53 man roster. Quinn, Dimitroff, and McKay will work closely together – discussions and group decisions, no one person will impose their will on the organization.
Asked about the future, Mr. Blank replied that without a crystal ball, “I believe our best opportunity going forward is to keep Quinn and Dimitroff in place.”
With McKay’s experience in football operations, being on the competition committee, his close link to the commissioner, this is not a surprise or big change to move him back to football operations. It is a matter of focus, not change. With the 5 year process of planning and implementing the stadium, 80% of his time was on the stadium, but he was in touch with Quinn and Dimitroff. Now, McKay will be making sure the processes are working and in constant working and talking contact with Quinn and Dimitroff.
McKay believes that the team ended up taking on too much change around all the other coaching, defense and offense leadership.
When asked about deadlines or number of losses to start the next season, Mr. Blank replied that there are no set numbers/parameters set for next season. There is no reason to think that the second half of the season is not sustainable into 2020. With the same coaches, many of the same players, free agency and the draft coming up.
McKay is not concerned about the salary cap, he has lived in that since 1993. He is ready to restructure, resign, evaluate anything and feels confident in the Falcons ability to manage the cap. Mr. Blank called out several players as “guys you would not want to not have signed”Julio Jones, Matt Ryan,Grady Jarrett, Deion Jones, andDevonta Freeman….sounds like he just laid down the Free is a Falcon stamp.
Wow. Talk about two steps forward and one step back. Fans completely discounted the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, then the team gets slaughtered, in their own house, first time back home in quite a while. And coming up in 4 days, the New Orleans Saints. Wanting revenge.
No one can seem to explain how the team could go so far backwards after 2 excellent games against good teams. The defense is back to cover 3, for no good reason. The Falcons didn’t have enough depth covering the Tampa Two plays. Most of what Tampa got were big plays. Obviously the 71-yard touchdown, but a 22-yard reception, on 2ndand 21, a 30-yard reception, on 3rdand 9, twice, converted on 24 and 25-yard runs. The Bucs were excellent on 3rddown conversions, while the Falcons were 25%, inside and outside the red zone. There were too many missed tackles. There were no sacks and only one hit onJameis Winston, when they had nearly lead the NFL is sacks allowed…and interceptions.
Deion Jones lead the team in tackles with 9 and had the only hit on Winston. Ricardo Allenwas on a mission with 9 tackles, tied withDamontae Kazee. De’Vondre Campbellhad 8 tackles, one for loss and one of the interceptions and a pass defended. Foye Oluokun, getting more playing time, had 5 tackles, and rookieKendall Sheffieldwith 4 and a near pass defended on a touchdown, but just out of reach. Qadree Ollisonhad 2 tackles – on punt returns. He is really making a contribution in limited playing time.
Winston was able to step up in the pocket and make plays, throwing for 313 yards and 3 touchdowns, with his 2 interceptions. The Bucs ran for an additional 133 yards. The Falcons tried to balance their man to man vs. zone, but whatever “disguising” was supposed to be happening was not working. While the Falcons did have 2 picks on the day, they got no points out of the first one, a touchdown out of the second. After starting out quickly, moving 68 yards in 3 plays, then stalling at the 7-yard line and ended up kicking a field goal to open the game. Instant momentum slasher themselves. Two plays later they get an interception, then end up punting themselves. There was never any momentum.
The Bucs had so few sacks all season and had given up the most in the NFL, until Sunday. They sackedMatt Ryan6 times and hit him 13 times. The Falcons’ offensive line was horrible. Allowing pressure, sacks, hits, or were holding. Wes Schweitzerwas rotated in, according toDan Quinn, as a designated/planned rotation. In my opinion, they need to revamp the entire line again (short ofAlex Mack– but need to think of a replacement for him before too much longer). And find someone that can evaluate O-Line talent, because the partial revamping done this season has not done any better than the last few years, while still keeping some of the weak points as back-ups. Jake MatthewsandKaleb McGaryneeded help andLuke Stockerwas in as a legit blocker, ie, no additional receivers down the field. Which explains how/whyJulio JonesandCalvin Ridleywere both double covered a couple of times, and Ryan still could not find anyone.
The Falcons could not run the ball, again. Ollison had 8 carries for 20 yards and Brian Hill 9 for 15 yards. Accuracy on passing or receiving was way off – even from our earlier bad games. Overall Ryan was 28 of 52. Ridley caught 6 of his 14 targets (some out of bounds so not drops or complete misses) for 85 yards. Russell Gage8 of 10 for 76 yards, with Jones limited to 5 of 9 receptions for 68 yards, one of which was 31 yards. Christian Blakecaught 2, Ollison 1. Jaeden Grahamcaught 1 of his 2 targets, which he turned into a 53-yarder.
Again, so many coaching decision questions. Down 15 points in the fourth quarter and go for the field goal instead of the touchdown. Late in the game, inside the 10 yard line – went for 3 passes and no run plays, after you had seen some good running from Ollison. Unlike most of the games in the first half of the season, there did not seem to be adjustments at half time, as the same team that went into the locker room at half is what came out after the half.
Julio moved up on the All Time Receiving Yards list – now 30th, passingCalvin Johnson.
One highlight continues to be Sheffield, who blocked an extra point that Sharrod Neasmen picked up and returned a long distance before being tackled.
Injury Report:
·Julio Jones tweaked his shoulder.
·Brian Hill – no information, but did play the rest of the game.
·Kemal Ishmael – no information, concussion in Panther game.
·Devonta Freeman – making progress, evaluation continues Tuesday/Wednesday.
·Austin Hooper – making progress, evaluation continues Tuesday/Wednesday.
·Chris Lindstrom – being evaluated, once released from IR will determine play date.
Golden Talon
Qadree Ollison– coming in when called, scoring another touchdown, 2 special teams tackles, trying to make things happen.
De’Vondre Campbell– another interception, nearly leading in tackles again.
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