On Thursday, January 15, Atlanta Falcons Legend Todd McClurejoined 92.9 The Game’s “The Morning Shift” with Beau Morgan,Mike Johnson and AliMac.
Johnson and McClure played on the offensive line together in Atlanta from 2011 and 2012. McClure also played with new President of Football, Matt Ryan, for 4 years, 2008 to 2012. Their teammates voted them both Offensive Captains at the end of the 2008 season. And now, both are in the Falcons Ring of Honor.
McClure’s first impression of just seeing Ryan, a kid out of Boston College, realizing McClure had been in the league, with the Falcons, for 8 years at this time. McClure thought, “He’s scrawny,” he can’t possibly hold up to the hits and the toll that the NFL takes on the body. But Ryan did, and McClure “loved that no matter how beat up or hit” he was during the game, usually because of O-Line mistakes, Ryan never made anyone feel like it was their fault, never made them feel inferior, “he was always encouraging.” McClure would see him in the training room after a game, Ryan barely moving. McClure would think that he wouldn’t play the next week, but Ryan always did. Ryan actually only missed a couple of games in his 13 years with the Falcons, playing and starting in 232 games, including regular and post season.
McClure told a story of 2008 training camp. Ryan had just been drafted and was in competition for the starting Quarterback job with Chris Redman. The QBs were rotated in and out. The Offensive Line was a tight group, Justin Blalock, Harvey Dahl, Sam Baker, and Tyson Claybo. They were cutting up in the huddle, had Running Back Michael Turner giggling about something. (If you know Turner, that wouldn’t be hard.) Ryan steps in as a rookie and says, “Shut the F… up.” Instantly they were all – ok, we got somebody right here. Then Ryan led the team to the playoffs, losing in Arizona. Johnson laughed that Ryan may not have jumped on anyone that first year in fear that “Harvey or Tyson might beat him up.” McClure agreed.
On the hiring of Ryan for the President of Football role, McClure said, “Could not ask for anybody better, with work effort, preparation wise, and the care for an organization to turn this around.”
The first that McClure, who lives in Lousiana, heard of the possibility of Ryan and this role, was from his father who lives in Atlanta. The elder McClure called his son and asked “Have you heard Matt might be coming back?” Mudduck said, “Man, this is special, he didn’t have to do this,” he seemed happy with the CBS job and certainly isn’t doing it for the money. Ryan is a true competior and loves the next challenge. He really wants to get this team turned around….unfinished business. Get that ring that evaded him in his playing career.
Morgan inquired about McClure’s opinion of the current O Line play. Looking at their play from a fan’s view, not diving in and watching film, McClure commented that (Matt)Bergeron and (Chris) Lindstrom are athletic, they really go. It is important to have a veteran on the line likeJake Matthews (who is currently on the team and played with Ryan from 2014 to 2021). Depending on the scheme the new coach runs, can make them even better. Just need to get Running Back Bijan Robinson to the line of scrimmage cleaner and let him do his thing. Overall, impressed with the group up front.
Asked what really qualifies Ryan for this PoF role, McClure said that he is just a born leader. The first time in the huddle he was not intimidated. He is not intimidated by any body and that will propel him. He is not afraid to talk to anyone in the room. He is not afraid to make decisions that may hurt feelings, which is going to be needd to turn this organization around. He’s going to have to make some unpopular decisions, for the right reasons. Ryan is not taking this job to climb a ladder, to move to a bigger and better role/team in the future. (Which we heard in the introductory presser ‘would only do this for this team.’) Ryan wants to make this team better.
Todd McClure and FalconAlley
As a personal note – having spoken to many former players in the past couple of years, they really get what it is like being a Falcon fan after they retire and are watching these games like the rest of us. See so much potentenial but not winning….or losing in the craziest ways.
Asked if he was chosing the next coach, McClure’s opinion (as a fan with no weight) noted that the Offensive Coordinator was actually more important that then Head Coach. (Jeff) Ulbrich, current Defensive Coordinator, has done a great job with lots of talent. Need to sign some Free Agents back, but “don’t touch that.” Need to find the OC that fits Bijan, he’s one of the best players in football. If the HC can bring in the right OC, he can be a dictator or not, but need the offensive mind to run this program right.
Johnson recounted some of his best memories with his O Line teammates. McClure has been raising bulls since his playing days, so the O Line sitting in the locker room together with “Sam, Blalock, Ramburg” trying to name some of the bulls. “Sam wanted to name one Scottie Flippin after Scottie Pippen.” Another suggestion was “High Five.” McClure laughingly recalled that in training camp “there were never 2 more miserable guys than Joe Hawley and Mike.” They looked like they wanted to go sell used cars, but game day, they came out and played. He recalled that this was one of the “funnest groups ever.”
It was great to hear teammates laugh and have some private jokes that we didn’t get. It is clear that everyone that knows Ryan thinks this is great for the organization and direction of the team.
After Kirk Cousins lead the Atlanta Falcons to another 4-touchdown game and win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dave Archer of 92.9 The Game spoke to him in the locker room.
Asked about a near sack or possible scramble that turned into a pass to Bijan, Kirk commented that you “just have to be patient and drop the ball off sometimes.” Kirk was “really trying to not take the sack, so just give it to Bijan and most often, he will make something happen.”
Arch commented that this game was stressful with the back to back scoring and Tampa taking it to the last play. Kirk noted that it is stressful, but “fun to make big plays and have teammates make big plays.” He commented that the defense played really well too. Arch complimented Kirk on his game and reading the situations, noting two of the touchdowns that were not the first choices on the play. Kirk noted that Kyle’s first touchdown was the 4th progression and Bijan’s was his 5th. Kirk complimented the offensive line because he can’t get to 4th and 5th progressions without time.
Talking about the partnership with Darnell Mooney, Kirk said that they worked and talked about different angles that would work during practice that week. So when Kirk had a good pocket and Mooney had created that separation, Kirk knew it was time to throw it in that coverage for the touchdown.
Asked about bleeding the clock from 6:52 to 1:04 in the fourth quarter, Kirk replied, “the main focus is to bleed clock.” “You still needed to snap and play ball, gotta move the ball.” And noted that Charlie Woerner made a big play at the start of that drive, to get the offense down the field before starting several runs.
Overall about the team, “This team responds….it was tough coming back from last week, but we gotta pick ourselves back up off the mat, we are playing a good team, building from here.”
Captains for the game are Jake Matthews, Grady Jarrett and Jessie Bates, they make the call on the coin toss and lose, Tampa Bay elects to receive the ball.
Tampa Bay begins on their own 30 with a Baker Mayfield hand off to Rachaad White for 8 yards, stopped by David Onyemata. On 2nd and 2, White goes up the middle, as he is going down Jessie Bates punches the ball out for a fumble. The Falcons take over at the 43.
The Falcons’ first play is a hand off to Bijan Robinson to the left for no gain. On 2nd and 9, Kirk Cousins rolls back to throw to Drake London for a 6-yard gain on the left side. On 3rd and 3, Cousins quick looks and misses London in the middle with lots of traffic. On 4th and 3 from Tampa’s 36, Cousins in the shot gun, London in motion, throws to Kyle Pitts at the 15 who runs in for the touchdown. The extra point is good and with 12:52 off the clock, the Falcons take the lead 7 – 0.
From their own 20, Tampa QB Baker Mayfield with the play fake, then pass to Bucky Irving, Nate Landman holds onto him with a Bates stop after a gain of 8 yards. On 2nd down, Irving with the run along the right side for the first down. From the 40, Mayfield hands the ball to White for a 5-yard gain, stopped by Grady Jarrett. Mayfield drops back to throw, cannot find anyone, so a near lateral throw to Irving and stopped behind the line by Demone Harris. On 3rd and 8, Mayfield passes near the first down marker, but stopped short. Mayfield with the QB sneak for the half yard, drops the ball, but falls on it. At midfield, a handoff to Irving who easily rushed through the line and gains 15 yards before finally getting pulled down by Landman. Too many defenders running around blocks and out of position to make the play. At the Falcons’ 39, handoff to Irving for a couple of yards, stopped by TQ Graham. Mayfield finds a receiver over the middle for a 6-yard gain, Arnold Ebiketie with the stop. On 3rd and 4, handoff to White, stopped by Richie Grant right at the first down marker. First down at the 24, another handoff for an 8-yard run to the left side. Hand off to Irving, up the middle again for 9 -yard gain, finally stopped by 27/21? From the 12, Mayfield in the shotgun, another handoff to White, for a short gain. On 2nd and goal from the 5, 3 receivers in, play fake, Mayfield flushed by Jarrett, Mayfield has to throw the ball away. On 3rd down, Mayfield looking into the middle of the field where Cade Otton catches the touchdown inside the goal line, with Bates in coverage.
Q1 4:22 Falcons 7/Buccaneers 7
On first down, the Falcons start with a play fake by Cousins to Darnell Mooney on the Falcons’ side of the 50, then runs to the Tampa 42, a 28-yard gain. Next is a hand off to Tyler Allgeier, who gains a few yards. On 2nd and 8, Cousins throws just off the hands of Mooney, slight arm tip by the defender as Cousins releases the ball – Chris Lindstrom off the block. On 3rd down, Cousins was nearly sacked due to Kaleb McGary not blocking at all, and throws the ball away. Bradley Pinion kicks the ball that lands and bounces for a stop at the 3-yard line.
On first down, Tampa rushes for no gain. On 2nd and 10, Mayfield from the end zone, throws up to Otton for a first down. From the 14, play fake, deep drop, Sean Tucker is wide open and makes the first down and stopped there by AJ Terrell. Tucker running for 4 yards, another stop by Terrell. On 2nd and 7, false start backs the Bucs up and the quarter ends.
End of Q1: Falcons 7/Buccaneers 7
Quarter two begins with Tampa at their own 19 with a 2nd and 12. Mayfield with a quick throw for 7 yards and immediately stopped by Clark Phillips. Mayfield with time, throws to midfield to Otton who carries several Falcons with him and is finally stopped after 29 yards by Ellis. Mayfeild gets by Matthew Judon for another 7-yard gain. On 2nd and 3, Irving easily goes up the middle for a first down, stopped by Dee Alford. From the 31, Mayfield hands off to Irving and gains a single yard, Alford in the nickelback position and trips him up behind the line. On 2nd and 9, Mayfield finds Otton in the middle of the line and –Smith sees he is not being blocked, so finds the receiver for the quick stop. On 3rd and 6, Otton catches and is shoved out of bounds by Phillips after the first down. At the Falcons’ 18, Mayfield throws a short pass to White who goes in for the 18-yard touchdown. Bates gets called for an unsportsmanlike conduct for knocking the ball out of White’s hands after the touchdown, as words are exchanged.
Q2, 10:28 Tampa 14/Atlanta 7
Starting at their own 30, Robinson takes the ball up the right side for 7 yards. on 2nd and 3, Ray Ray McCloud and Charlie Woerner on the right side, Robinson fights for 2 yards, stopped short of the first down. Robison to the left, Cousins in the shot gun, hands the ball to Robinson who runs through the line for the first down. Allgeier comes in, Pitts to the right, London on the left side. Fake to McCloud in motion, then drops off to McCloud in the left flat. McCloud gains 6 yards before being shoved out of bounds. Allgeier up the middle for a first down up the middle. In tempo, Cousins play fake to Allgeier, throws a bomb to Mooney near the goal line, but the defender knocks the ball out of Mooney’s hands. Ball was a tad short and late. Cousins in the shot gun, hits Pitts at the 35 who goes into the end zone for a called touchdown. The defender knocks the ball out right at the goal line as Pitts is carrying the ball behind him like a loaf of bread. After review, the touchdown stands.
Kyle Pitts Touchdown Reception – Courtesy of Shanna Lockwood
Q2 7:19 Atlanta 14/Tampa Bay 14
Mayfield play fake, finds a receiver, but it called back by penalty for rolling up on Judon’s ankles. First and 25 from the 15, a gain of 9 with a big stop by Kaden Ellis. On 2nd and 16, Mayfield throws up to the receiver at the 30 who gains another few yards. Now at 3rd and 7, Mayfield throws behind the receiver who was wide open due to man coverage, while 2 defenders crossed up in the outside route. Avery Williams at the 25, takes the punt up 14 yards to the 39-yard line.
Starting at their own 39, on first down, Cousins shoots for London at midfield for a 13-yard gain. Robinson and 3 receivers to the left, Cousins loops to Robinson for 6 yards. Next down, Mooney and London to the right, Cousins and Robinson in the pistol, Robinson takes the ball up 8 yards. First and 10 from the 34, in a busted play, Cousins runs right toward the sideline and slides down. On 2nd and 12, Pitts and London to the right with London in motion, Robinson gets the reception after a late, tight throw for 6. Then, on 3rd and 6, from the shotgun at the 30, Cousins waits, then finds Mooney at the 5 who takes it in for the touchdown.
Q2 2:09 Falcons 21/Buccaneers 14
From the 30, Mayfield’s pass is batted in the air at the line by Onyemata. White takes the ball up the right side and is met hard by Bertrand and stopped after a 4-yard gain.
2:00 minute warning
Third and 5 from the Tampa 34, Mayfield finds a receiver at the Falcons 40, stopped by Grant immediately. Ellis is sitting on the field injured, gets up limping, but doesn’t appear to be too injured as he heads to the tent. Mayfield drops back and throws the bomb into the end zone – but is way over thrown and incomplete out of the end zone. On 2nd down, a short pass and the receiver is immediately stopped by Bates who was running to the receiver before the ball was thrown. On 3rd and 8, Mayfield passes up for a 5-yard gain, laid out by Landman and Alford. On 4th and a long 3, Mayfield under center, trying to draw the Falcons’ defense offsides, call a time out. Buccaneers kick a 52-yard field goal.
Q2 1:04 Falcons 21/Buccaneers 17
Ray Ray McCloud takes the kick off up to the 30. With 58 seconds remaining in the half, in the pistol set, snap to Cousins, guns it to London at the 37 who goes out of bounds. Next pass is just off the fingertips of Pitts – too high. On 3rd and 3, Pitts has to double clutch the ball, but makes the first down in the middle of the field. On 1st down, Robinson runs out of bounds near midfield. At the Bucs’ 49, they call time out with 24 seconds remaining. First and 10, Cousins finds Mooney at the 28 for 21 yards. A quick pass to Pitts for 3 yards who goes out of bounds. Raheem Morris calls the Falcons’ final time out.
With 13 seconds remaining, Cousins is incomplete to London near the 5. On 3rd and 8 with 9 seconds left, the offense stays on the field. Cousins from the shotgun, out of bounds over Mooney. A defensive penalty gives a first down and moves the ball to the 21. Younghoe Koo comes on the field for the 39-yard field goal.
Halftime: Atlanta 24/Tampa Bay 17
McCloud takes the kickoff up to the 27, where the Falcons’ offense will begin the 2nd half of the game. A quick toss to Robinson on the left side goes for a 15-yard gain. A flag on Mooney for a 10-yard penalty. Now, first and 17 from the 21. Robinson is taken down after a 2-yard gain. From the pistol, Cousins finds McCloud for a loss of 3 yards, no blocking taking place in the last two downs. On 3rd and 21, Cousins hands to Robinson for 12 yards to give Pinion some space. Pinion punts to the 26, returner goes up to the 37, Allgeier for the stop.
Tampa’s first possession of the 2nd half begins on their 39. Handoff to Irving, Jarrett in the back field, but Irving spinning and avoiding tackles, for a ½ yard gain. On 2nd down, Mayfield from the gun, he ends up running the ball, stopped by Elliss, but there was holding on the offense so the Bucs are backed up to their 30. The hold was on Jarrett – who still almost made the tackle, getting a paw on Mayfield. White makes the next reception, with a gain of 7, forcing a 3rd and 12. All out blitz is coming, but the receiver makes the catch, just crossing the first down line. Ruke Orhorhoro is down, then assisted off the field, favoring his right leg. A play fake and Mayfield sips the ball to Irving who avoids and escapes tackles and is finally shoved out after 13 yards, by Landman. Inside the Falcons’ 38, Mayfield to Irving to Mayfield……and JESSIE BATES with the reception/INTERCEPTION.
Jessie Bates Interception – Courtesy of Jay Bendlin
From the 8, Robinson in motion, Allgeier gets nearly 5 yards to the 13. On 2nd down, Allgeier is the lone setback, London and Mooney to the right, hand to Allgeier who pushes up to the 18 for a first down, with Allgeier carrying the linebacker for the tackle. Cousins tosses to Allgeier to the right side for a 3-yard gain, shoved out of bounds. Woerner with good blocking. Allgeier barrels out to a yard short of the first, on the next play Allgeier gains the first down and another 10 yards. As Dave Archer says, “here comes the bowling ball of razor blades.” Next play is a bust with the first sack of the game. Matthew Bergeron and Ryan Neuzil cannot hold off the rushing defenders. On the next play, Robison gains 7 yards, but injuries on both sides pause the game. Chris Lindstrom is down for the Falcons. It’s 3rd and 12 from the 35, Kyle Hinton in for Lindstrom, Cousins finds McCloud for 5 yards. Pinion punts.
Tampa begins at their own 31, with the play fake, a quick dump off for a 5-yard gain, knocked out of bounds by Mike Hughes. Both backs are in the game, Irving with a short gain to the right, Zack Harris and Ellis for the quick stop. On 3rd and 3, Mayfield from the gun, with pressure, lobs the ball out early and the ball is over the receiver with Judon in tight coverage. On for the punt, the Bucs try a fake by snapping to the upback, and was blown up by KhaDarel Hodge.
From the Bucs’ 36-yard line, Cousins hands to Robinson and runs 36 yards for the touchdown. A flag on the play, for McCloud holding and tackling the safety. Backed up to the 46, it is 1st and 20, from the gun, Cousins hands to Robinson for a 5-yard gain. On 2nd and 15, a reception by Robinson for another 10 yards. Lined up quickly, Cousins finds Mooney for the first down at the 24-yard line. Mooney made the catch a yard short, looked at the down marker and stopped to adjust and go the additional yardage before getting knocked out of bounds. With a new set of downs, Cousins hands to McCloud on the sweep, he trips over McGary, gets up and keeps going to the 7. On first down, Allgeier is quickly stopped by Vita Vea. It’s 2nd and goal, Woerner and McCloud to the left, Mooney in motion, Cousin drops it to Robinson who runs to the goal line, stops to miss the defender tackle, then takes the final step into the end zone. Robison was the 4th option, but wide open on the left side. Bijan celebrates with the Dirty Dancing lift by Bergeron. (That was my take as I just watched the movie again yesterday afternoon.)
Q3 :014 Falcons 31/Buccaneers 17
After the kickoff, the Bucs begin on their 30 with a Mayfield pass to Irving for 6 yards, shoved out by Elliss.
End of Q3
From the 36, 2nd down and 4, the running back goes up 17 yards and finally taken out by Terrell. From the 47, Mayfield under center, he passes up the middle of the field for a 20-yard gain, tackled after a few yards by Grant. From the 27, Irving makes the 3-yrad reception and regret it as Terrell makes a hard stop. On the next play, from the 24 (to the 24), Mayfield drops back and throws to the 6 where AJ TERRELL makes another pick.
AJ Terrell With 2nd Pick of the Season – Courtesy of Jay Bendlin
The Falcons’ offense takes the field with nearly 13 minutes left in game from their own 6-yard line. Cousins is under center, hands off to Allgeier who was immediately wrapped up by Vea. Cousins hand to Allgeier who fumbles the ball, but is knocked out of the end zone for a touchback and safety. Allgeier never really had the ball, but luckily Mooney went after it and got it knocked out of the back of the end zone.
Q4 12:04 Atlanta 31/Tampa Bay 19
Pinion kicks to the 7, it is returned to the 27 being stopped by Antonio Hamilton and Hodge. First play is offsides and a 1st and 15 from the 22. Mayfield finds Irving, Alford gets his feet stopped and Hughes and make the shove out of bounds for a 1-yard gain. Mayfield in the gun, throws to the receiver with a sliding first down reception. With a 2nd and 6, Mayfield hesitates, then throws across midfield. From the 50, Mayfield underthrows the receiver. On 2nd down, Mayfield throws left for a 6-yard gain along the sideline against the soft corner. It is 3rd and 4, Mayfield looks up field, then runs to the 34 for another first down, stopped finally by Elliss. Throws over the head of White. Second down, loops it to white, Elliss and Jarrett wrap him up at the 26. Another 3rd and 4, pressure coming, the receiver makes the reception at the 9 with Grant on the tackle. The running back goes right for 5 yards, then short pass to Otton for another touchdown.
Q4 6:50 Falcons 31/Buccaneers 26
The Falcons begin on their own 30. London and Mooney left side, Cousins finds Woerner on the left side for a first down. Three receivers and a tight end, Woerner in motion, Robinson for a 7-yard gain, behind a good block by Hinton. On 2nd and 3 at midfield, snap to Cousins, Robinson on the right side, dragging defenders, short by 1 yard. Quick back to the line, Robinson busts through for several yards, almost broke away with a single defender on his ankle. From the Bucs’ 42, Robinson weaves through for several yards with another flag on the play. Personal foul for a facemask on Neuzil, pushing the Falcons back to the Falcons’ 43. It’s 1st and 25, Pitts and Allgeier in the game, Cousins finds London, who stays in bounds, for 11 yards. On 2nd and 14, Allgeier in the pistol with Cousins, Tampa shows man, Cousins steps in the pocket and runs to the 32, but is marked short. Tampa calls a time out.
With 3:05 to play, 3rd and 1 at the Tampa 33. Allgeier gets the call and doesn’t get the first down. On 4th and 1, Cousins under center, Atlanta calls a time out.
Two Minute Warning
Allgeier, two tight ends, Cousins barrels in with a big push with Woerner and Allgeier with the big pushes. Allgeier gets the first down call for no gain. Tampa time out. On 2nd and 10, Allgeier to the left for a 2-yard loss, tackled by Vea. Tampa time out. On 3rd and 12, Allgeier out, Robinson in, to the right side for a few yards. On 4th and 8. Falcons call a time out before the play clock expires. Koo on for the 47-yard field goal with 1:06 to go. Koo misses the field goal, giving the Buccaneers the ball at their own 36.
Mayfield throws up to the 40 tackled hard by Elliss. 45 seconds, Mayfield can’t find a receiver, finally over throws the receiver with Grant in tight coverage. With 40 seconds to go, 3 receivers on the left side, quick throw to the 47 for a first down, tackled by Hughes. Mayfield finds a receiver at the Falcons’ 33. Second level throws are killing the Falcons defense. With 9 seconds to go, Mayfield downs the ball and then Falcons call their final time out. At the 33, the Bucs are offsides and moved back to the 38. Second and 15, Mayfield in the pocket, has to throw out of bounds stopping the clock at :06. Grant and Bates and Terrell are in the end zone. The ball is thrown into a crowd of defenders and receivers and falls incomplete.
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 DarnellMooney’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.”
Never count the Falcons out. Especially in a close game in prime time. For the world to see, after losing the first game of the season, at home, without giving up a touchdown, the Falcons fought to not become the 10th team with an 0-2 start to the 2024 season. And in good timing. The first 6 games are pretty tough, good Pittsburg and Philadelphia teams, the defending Super Bowl champs of Kansas City, then, the Falcons make their first run through the NFC South. Two of the NFC South teams are 2-0. Also of note, 3 of those games, while at home, are in a 12-day window, 2 prime time games, before heading up 85N to Carolina.
All that to say, this was a good time to win and get some momentum started for the season. The defense was lights out in both games, only giving up (long) field goals in game one. In Philadelphia, they made some great stands as well. A stop on 4th down, a touchdown pass deflected forcing a field goal. All in a very hostile and loud environment. The Falcons’ D went toe to toe with a great offense. Their win Monday night really validated the defense and Head Coach Raheem Morris and the plans for 2024. This sets the team up well to host Kansas City this coming week. The fourth and one stop early in the game, set the tone. There was better tackling overall this week. Saquan Barkley and Jalen Hurts definitely were harder to get down, but only gave up a few big plays.
Jessie Bates was the all-star of the win Monday night. Not because of the game winning interception, but he led the team in tackles, is always active and applying pressure, leader on and off the field. But his actual biggest play of the night was knocking that touchdown catch out of the receiver’s hand – stopping a third quarter touchdown that would have put the game out of reach. The Eagles settled for a field goal. Jessie finished with 12 tackles, 7 solo, 1 tackle for loss, 2 passes defended……oh, and an interception. Being so aggressive, Bates did outrun the play a few times, was out of position giving Hurts some extra yards, but he is always the closer in the end.
Justin Simmons is making his presence felt, knocking folks around last night (5 tackles), which will continue and show why he was brought in. Speaking of newly added free agents, Matthew Judon had a sack, 6 tackles, 2 for loss. Grady Jarrett was a beast on the inside as usual, while only having 2 tackles, he had 3 quarterback hits (most on the team) and often chased Hurts out of the pocket and forced errant throws. Speaking of affecting the quarterback, Kaden Elliss was a step away for Hurts as he released his last ball of the night, that found its way into Bates’ hands. Elliss amassed 11 tackles (2nd most) and 1 QB hit. Troy Anderson followed with 9 and AJ Terrell with 7 total, all solo. Elliss and Anderson struggled a little with open field tackles on Barkley and Hurts, but made up for it with the rest or their play. Arnold Ebiketie and David Onyemata stepped up later in the game and had 3 tackles a piece.
We are starting to see some new, good things from the O. Still think we need to use Drake London and Kyle Pitts more, but definitely see the impact of adding Darnell Mooney and Clemson boy Ray Ray McCloud. Kudos to the Falcons for actually using him as a receiver instead of just a returner. Everyone slept on Ray Ray, except for Rah and Terry Fontenot (and me). Similarly, Mooney never was appreciated or used enough in Chicago, but getting him more active in this offense is going to spread it out and allow everyone to get in on the action. Mooney had a touchdown, a 41-yard reception, and lots of motion in the backfield. Seeing Drake fake the post and catch that touchdown shows why he is so special and drafted so high, now that we are using him correctly. Drake’s first visit back in end zone since the London, England game October of 2023.
Kyle and Bijan Robinson were picking up blitzes and chipping guys….so even though Kyle didn’t have huge numbers, he had them when we needed them and blocking, giving Kirk Cousins a few more seconds to make decisions and get completions. Bijan is just a beast, still can’t believe this is his second year in the NFL. Overall, Kirk was composed and calmly led the team down the field for the game winning touchdown.
Bijan’s breaking tackles, and the consistency with the run game between Bijan and Tyler Allgeier, really opened up the offense, credit to OC Zac Robinson. Tyler and Bijan ran well behind the offensive line against a stout Eagles’ defense. Got a broad stroke catalog of what this offense can and will do. Zac Robinson is just now scratching the surface of this new offense, now that we are out of the bland pre-season.
Cousins was 20 of 29 for 241 yards, 2 touchdowns and no interceptions and sack, due to Chris Lindstrom not holding his block long enough. Cousins was more mobile this week and spread the ball around pretty well. Especially on the final drive, going 5 of 6 for 70 yards and the touchdown, note that the 1 incompletion should have been PI for Ray Ray, but here we are. Overall, Mooney was targeted 7 times, caught 3 for 88 yards, 47 on the final drive.
London caught 6 of 7 passes for 54 yards, Ray Ray caught 3 of 5 (again, 1 should have been a PI), making several conversions early. Pitts caught 3 of 4 for 20 yards, 2 of those receptions in the final drive. Bijan caught 4 balls for 25 yards with Tyler catching his only target for 12 yards. In the run game, Bijan carried 14 times for 97 yards, while Tyler had 9 carries for 53 yards. Tyler had more playing time this week, but still not as much as they could do with this two headed monster.
The offensive line was much better this week. The first drive of the 2nd half was a pass to Bijan, then 2 Bijan runs, another pass to Bijan, then 3 Tyler runs before a sack and field goal. This series really gassing the defense. The O line was holding up and really making the strong Philly defense work. Cousins was only pressured 5 of his 25 drop backs. Matthew Bergeron and Drew Dalman were much improved, while Lindstrom did struggle some. But there were no penalties on the line.
Overall, there were only 3 penalties on the whole team, 2 of which were on Drake for celebrating and Ray Ray, for – no one knows. The third was on JD Bertrand covering a punt and blocking above the waist. That is a really clean game.
This game was well worth staying up past midnight to watch the dramatic end, celebrate online with fellow fans, and hear and see all of the interviews and excitement from the team.
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