J.Mike's Missives

For the second-straight week the Falcons put together flashes of success on the field only to fizzle at key moments in the game.

Head Coach Mike Smith did not hesitate when he talked to the media Tuesday — a little more than 12 hours after losing to the New Orleans Saints — about the team’s need for consistency.

“Looking at the tape I thought there were some good things and some things we did OK but there are some things we need to get corrected,” the second-year coach said, referring to the team’s 35-27 defeat at the hands of a division rival on Monday Night Football.

“We’re not hitting on all cylinders for 60 minutes and I think that’s the thing that’s evident over the last couple weeks. We’re not sustaining our level of play through the entire game… Not to make excuses, but — and this is not just on the offensive side of the ball, this is all three phases — we’re not sustaining the level of play to get the outcome we want.”

The coach said players and coaches alike must identify the issue and look to correct it before losses pile up on the team’s 4-3 record.

“We’re all responsible for the outcomes,” he said.

OTHER NOTES FROM THE MONDAY PRESSER…

… Smith listed several positives from the game, including running back Michael Turner’s season-high 151 rushing yards. Turner had been struggling to put together a dominant game.

“It’s something we’ve been working on and trying to tweak and get going,” Smith said. “I think one of the biggest differences was Michael really running hard and down hill.”

Smith said the coaching staff added some new looks in run formations but a lot of the praise went to Turner, who took time to review tape of some of his big runs from a Pro Bowl season in 2008 prior to taking the field in New Orleans.

The head coach did not offer an injury update on running backs Jerious Norwood (hip) and Jason Snelling (hamstring), who were inactive for the game.

… Veteran kicker Jason Elam missed a pair of field goals Monday night, leading to questions about the position from the Atlanta media.

“Jason did not kick the ball like we’re accustom to seeing him kick the ball,” Smith said. “That’s something we’ll always be evaluating. We always have a backup plan in place already in terms of who would be our backup kicker. (Punter) Michael (Koenen) has done that in the past, but that’s something we’re always evaluating.”

… Cornerback Tye Hill, acquired in a trade just before the regular season, officially got the start at one of the cornerback slots Monday night but Smith said more changes could be in store as the team finds the right combination to replace Brian Williams.

Smith said Hill was consistent against the run and the pass, but added Brent Grimes and perhaps rookie Christopher Owens could see more time on defense as the season progresses.

Grimes got his first interception of the season — a leaping grab that made it into several highlight packages — Monday night.

AS FOR THE REDSKINS…

… The Falcons will return to Flowery Branch for meetings Tuesday evening before getting Wednesday off. The team is on a short week to prepare for the Washington Redskins (2-5).

“Defensively, they are very strong. I think they’re a very aggressive team. They’ve had two weeks to prepare coming off a bye week,” Smith said.

J. Michael Moore News Brent Grimes, Brian Williams, Christopher Owens, Head Coach Mike Smith, Jason Elam, Jason Snelling, Jerious Norwood, Michael Koenen, Michael Turner, Monday Night Football, New Orleans Saints, Tye Hill, video, Washington Redskins

Something about the Bears coming to town brings out the best in the Georgia Dome crowd and the Falcons.

It also stirs up a little storm of luck that, for now, seems to be on the Falcons’ side. But like a tornado slicing through the plains, luck can be a fickle friend. This is particularly true if, as FoxSports.com reports, Falcons cornerback Brian Williams (knee) is done for the season.

Williams hurt the knee defending a pass in the end zone in the second half of Sunday’s game.

He was replaced in base packages by Brent Grimes and in the nickel package, when Williams usually moves inside, Chevis Jackson came into the game.

Head Coach Mike Smith is scheduled to speak with the media at 3:15 p.m. Monday, but he usually does not discuss injuries until after practice on Wednesday.

Regardless, the Falcons have done well with the injury bug this season overcoming most if not all the major bumps and bruises they’ve encountered.

It’s part of being a successful team in the NFL.

It’s part of controlling the storm of luck.

Complete Falcons-Bears Game Coverage, AF.com
The Falcons improved to 4-1 with a win over the Bears with two tough road games ahead. More on the game and what’s on the horizon in other blogs.

Falcons withstand Bears in another thriller, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“The NFL schedule makers might want consider pitting the Chicago Bears and the Atlanta Falcons against each other more often. This is getting to be fun.” That would certainly be nice… But I’m good for a while.

No ‘growing pains’ for Falcons defense, AF.com
Whenever the Falcons offense struggles the defense is there to save the day. That’s the way a team is supposed to work.

Breaking down Ryan by the numbers, ESPN.com
There’s a stat for just about anything.

Atlanta Falcons edge out a victory over Chicago Bears, 21-14, Examiner.com
It was a late night at the Georgia Dome, but time certainly flies when you’re having fun.

Falcons’ veteran linebacker finds groove, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
At one point during Sunday night’s game @FalconsCreative turned to me and said ‘I’m glad we’ve got Mike Peterson.’ Yes. Me too.

Cutler, Bears come up short in 21-14 loss to Falcons, USA Today
Judging from the headline USA Today leans toward Chicago. I guess Jay Cutler is still the big name. At this point the Falcons are probably used to the lack of attention and perform well as an underdog.

Chicago Bears lose 21-14 to Atlanta Falcons, Chicago Tribune
The Bears did a good job protecting the football in three straight wins. Three turnovers in Game No. 5 didn’t do them any favors.

DeCoud, Johnson stand up for Falcons’ defense, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Smith talked Sunday night about younger players stepping up and making plays. DeCoud and Johnson joined the party against the Bears.

Stepping into starring roles, ESPN.com
“…But the game actually was won for the Falcons by an assemblage of lesser-known role players, guys who might enjoy a trip to Honolulu only if they pay for it.” If you blink, you miss this wonderful aspect of the NFL.

What We Learned: Bears-Falcons, SI.com
I know it’s looking ahead, but I’m wondering what the Falcons-Saints game at the Georgia Dome will be like. It’s shaping up to be the biggest game of the year. Then again, they’re all big games.

Norwood, Moore go down to injuries, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
John Manasso highlighted the Falcons injury situation in his morning blog.

Falcons And Bears Recap: Hanging Tough And Winning Big, The Falcoholic
Highlights and lowlights, though a win erases just about any bad feeling in the pit of the stomach, right?

The brand new Falcons play in prime time and find a way, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“These Falcons are not the feckless Falcons of old. They can look bad, yes. But they refuse to look bad for long.”

J. Michael Moore Birdseed AF.com, AJC, Brent Grimes, Brian Williams, Chevis Jackson, Chicago Bears, Chicago Tribune, ESPN.com, Examiner.com, FalconsCreative, FoxSports.com, Head Coach Mike Smith, Jay Cutler, John Manasso, Mike Peterson, SI.com, Sunday Night Football, The Falcoholic, Thomas DeCoud, Thomas Johnson, USA Today

News from the Falcons starting lineup, where new cornerback Brian Williams is slated to start ahead of cornerback Brent Grimes.

Also on the inactive list, several Falcons who won’t suit up against the Dolphins, including recently-acquired cornerback Tye Hill. Second-round pick William Moore (hamstring) will also not play.

Other Falcons inactives include:

• QB John Parker Wilson (third quarterback)
• LB Spencer Adkins
• OT Will Svitek
• OT Garrett Reynolds
• DT Trey Lewis

The team released reserve fullback Verron Haynes Saturday afternoon, adding another change to the lineup.

The Dolphins counter with Chad Henne as the team’s emergency quarterback. This means Pat White, an effective runner, will be available to run the offense, perhaps in a variant of the Wildcat formation.

Other Dolphins inactives include:

• FS Chris Clemons
• OG Shawn Murphy
• OT Andrew Gardne
• DE Lionel Dotson
• WR Patrick Turner
• TE John Nalbone
• LB Cameron Wake

Wide receiver Greg Camarillo will start in place of Devone Bess.

J. Michael Moore Gameday, Roster Moves Brent Grimes, Brian Williams, Chad Henne, Garrett Reynolds, John Parker Wilson, Miami Dolphins, Pat White, Spencer Adkins, Trey Lewis, Tye Hill, Verron Haynes, Will Svitek, William Moore

Defensive tackle Peria Jerry was credited with four tackles in the first quarter of Thursday’s game against the Ravens, including the first sack of his young career.

The rookie worked with the first-string defense, leading a front seven that was stout against the Ravens run game.

The group allowed 21 rushing yards in the first quarter and 3 yards in the second period.

As a junior at Ole Miss Jerry recorded 58 tackles (14 for loss). He played a big part in a defensive turnaround from 2007 to 2008. The team ranked fourth in the nation in rushing defense last season after ranking 101st the previous year.

He led the SEC with 18 tackles for loss as a senior and registered 10.5 sacks over the last two seasons.

He was the Falcons first-round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft and, outside of some missed time after a bruised knee in mini camp, he’s gotten steady work with the first- and second-team defense.

Jerry’s was one of three Falcons sacks in the first half.

The Falcons defense, as a whole, settled down in the second quarter of Thursday’s game and put up solid numbers for the opening half.

The Ravens were 3-of-6 on third down in the first half, putting up 60 total yards. Baltimore threw for minus-10 yards in the second quarter.

IN-GAME THOUGHTS…

… Cornerback Christopher Owens forced a fumble on the Ravens third punt return of the game. The ball was recovered by Baltimore.

… Defensive end Kroy Biermann notched his first sack of the preseason in the second quarter. The play ended a streak of third-down conversions by the Ravens and forced a punt.

… After some early jitters, the Falcons secondary settled in. On the Ravens third possession of the game, cornerback Brent Grimes nearly picked off a pass intended for Justin Harper on third down. The diving knock-away forced a punt with 9:38 remaining in the half.

… John Parker Wilson checked in at quarterback for the Falcons after the team’s opening drive.

… Head Coach Mike Smith said Chevis Jackson would get playing time on the outside against the Ravens. And he did. A notable play came with just under six minutes left in the half when Jackson stayed with Harper and made a play on the ball. Incomplete. Owens checked in for Grimes on the same series, starting the shift to second-string players on the defense.

… Wilson took a shot from the Ravens 29 with 1:46 left in the half, looking for Robert Ferguson in the end zone. The two failed to connect and the drive stalled just outside the red zone. The Falcons settled for a field goal.

… Jamaal Anderson recorded a sack to end the first half. The Ravens took a 7-3 lead into the locker room.

J. Michael Moore Gameday, Preseason Baltimore Ravens, Brent Grimes, Chevis Jackson, Christopher Owens, Head Coach Mike Smith, Jamaal Anderson, John Parker Wilson, Kroy Biermann, Peria Jerry, Preseason, Robert Ferguson

One thing the Falcons didn’t do a lot of in an 11-win season in 2008 was play from behind. Head Coach Mike Smith pushed quick scores and early starts, giving the defense a chance to play with a lead.

The Falcons want a more aggressive defense in 2009, one that flies to the quarterback with gusto and makes plays no matter the score.

A defense that creates opportunities.

A defense that stands on its own.

Atlanta showed flashes of that team Saturday night against the Chargers but there are some things the defense now has on film that will allow for more improvement in the final exhibition game and in practices leading up to the regular season.

The Chargers took advantage of aggressive plays by working the screen pass, hitting running backs out of the backfield on no less than seven plays. One went for a 48-yard touchdown from Philip Rivers to Michael Bennett that gave the Chargers a 14-7 lead in the second quarter.

San Diego’s third touchdown of the first half also came off a Falcons blitz — a Malcom Floyd catch at the goal line on Brent Grimes (three Falcons were closing in on quarterback Billy Volek as the pass left his hand).

The team’s lone sack came off a Brent Grimes corner blitz, though defensive end Jamaal Anderson was within a glove of getting to the quarterback anyway.

Another area of game film to review? Third-down defense.

The Chargers converted five third downs in the second quarter, including third-and-13, third-and-18 and third-and-17.

For the first half, San Diego converted 7 of 8 third-down attempts.

But there was an encouraging rebound.

Atlanta’s defense forced a field goal attempt (a miss) on the Chargers first drive of the second half. The first-team also stayed on for another series, forcing a punt.

The Falcons started mixing in reserve players on defense in the fourth quarter.

STILL MORE IN-GAME THOUGHTS…

… The Falcons can run the two-minute offense, but coaches will certainly bite their nails at the lack of a touchdown to close out the first half.

… Veteran wide receiver Marty Booker got into the game as the team’s No. 3 receiver inside the two-minute warning and caught two passes to get the Falcons into Chargers territory. The drive ended in a Jason Elam field goal and a 21-13 San Diego lead at halftime.

… Matt Ryan completed 13 of 18 passes in the first half for 133 yards and a touchdown. His favorite targets? Booker and Michael Jenkins, who each hauled in three passes. Running back Michael Turner rushed for 42 on a 3.8-yard per carry average.

… Ryan finished his time in the game with 140 passing yards, a touchdown and a passer rating of 106.2.

J. Michael Moore Gameday, Preseason Brent Grimes, Jason Elam, Marty Booker, Matt Ryan, Michael Jenkins, Michael Turner, Preseason, San Diego Chargers

The Falcons and Chargers scrapped to a 7-7 tie in the first quarter at the Georgia Dome Saturday evening. Exciting, but not the same fireworks the teams showed during the first two games of the 2009 preseason.

Matt Ryan and the Falcons offense put up 93 total yards. Ryan completed 6-of-8 passes for 59 yards and a score (a 12-yard strike to Brian Finneran on third down).

Running back Michael Turner had seven touches for 31 rushing yards.

The Falcons allowed just 16 rushing yards — all to Darren Sproles — but 10 of them went to an early touchdown run.

San Diego worked the screen pass early and often against the Falcons defense — a practice that continued into the second quarter and had defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder, Head Coach Mike Smith and defensive end John Abraham fired up on the sideline.

SOME IN-GAME OBSERVATIONS…

… Ryan threw two early incompletions but the Falcons kept him upright. Blitz pickup looked solid.

… Wide receiver Eric Weems got into the game early as a wide receiver. Weems is fighting for a spot as the team’s punt returner and looking for a position in the receiver rotation. Brent Grimes got in on the punt return team for the first time in the preseason, a fair catch at his own 10.

… Tight end Tony Gonzalez caught two passes in the first quarter for 15 yards (one first down) Roddy White had one catch for 22 yards.

… Jerious Norwood returned the opening kickoff of the game, but he took a seat on special teams after that play and second-year running back Thomas Brown took over the return duties. His first return went for 21 yards.

J. Michael Moore Gameday, Preseason Brent Grimes, Brian Finneran, Brian VanGorder, Eric Weems, Head Coach Mike Smith, John Abraham, Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, Preseason, Roddy White, San Diego Chargers, Thomas Brown, Tony Gonzalez

Random thoughts from the press box while wondering if “Gumbel to Gumbel: Beach Justice” will ever be on the air...

Amazing how a home game changes your perspective on football. For the first time this season I was greeted with images of tailgaters outside the Georgia Dome. My seat in the press box has that familiar feel.

Yes… It’s all coming back to me now.

The Atlanta Falcons host the San Diego Chargers Saturday night at “The big Dome in Atlanta.” Football season has, officially, returned.

Some quick notes on the game before we get into Birdseed…

• Defensive linemen Jason Jefferson and Willie Evans will not play against the Chargers. Both are nursing injuries.
• Head Coach Mike Smith said the team’s offensive and defensive starters will play into the third quarter, allowing time for halftime adjustments.
• Eric Weems seems to have the lead in the job to return punts, but we could also see Chandler Williams and Brent Grimes at some point.
• Keep an eye on the D-line rotation. Lots of players with ability. Lots of motivation to keep everyone fresh and ready for the preseason.
• William Moore will play early on special teams and get in on defense in the second half.

Complete Falcons-Chargers game coverage, AF.com
All you need to know pre-game, in-game and postgame.

5 reasons to feel confident about the 2009 Falcons, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The pieces are in place. The expectations are set. All that’s left to do is play some football.

San Diego Chargers-Atlanta Falcons Preview Pack, Examiner.com
Let’s preview some of the story lines. It’s preseason, but we all have to get into the regular-season routine.

First string to see action against San Diego, AF.com
I wouldn’t recommend tuning into this game late, but if you miss the first couple of series you’ll still be able to see the Falcons first-string offense and defense.

Saturday Pre-Game Notes: Tackling The San Diego Charger, The Falcoholic
To discuss aspects of the game, I recommend the FalconsLIFE Message Boards.

Roster spots on line for Falcons, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Roster decisions are never easy, particularly for a team that’s starting to take on the personality of its General Manager and Head Coach. More personal relationships to face.

J. Michael Moore Birdseed, Gameday, Preseason AF.com, AJC, Brent Grimes, Chandler Williams, Eric Weems, Examiner.com, Head Coach Mike Smith, injury, Jason Jefferson, Preseason, San Diego Chargers, The Falcoholic, Willie Evans

Some important things to cover on this last day of Russell Falcons Training Camp.

What do ya say, Smitty?

“We will start (Tuesday) getting into our regular-season routine,” Head Coach Mike Smith said Monday morning. “Tomorrow will be a Wednesday, so it will be a typical Wednesday and we will just sequence through the week Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday. Of course we play on Saturday, which will be a regular Sunday game.

“Our guys are going to get indoctrinated this week starting tomorrow to our regular schedule. We will come in, work in the mornings, have a walk through, take a break for lunch and come back after lunch and practice.”

The biggest news from Monday includes injury updates… Or a lack there of.

Cornerback Chris Houston, who injured his hamstring in the first preseason game, returned to the field. Running back Thomas Brown, who did not dress for Friday’s win at St. Louis, also practiced.

Smith said the team limited Houston and will keep an eye on the hamstring to see if there are any negative side effects.

“It felt great, just getting back in and getting some of the soreness out of my leg, it felt good,” Houston said.

A three-year veteran, Houston has started 27 of 32 games in his career including 11 in his rookie season. But he and others at his position are locked in intense battles for jobs this preseason.

Brent Grimes is listed opposite Houston on the depth chart but Chevis Jackson, Von Hutchins and rookie Christopher Owens got plenty of snaps in the first two preseason games.

“Competition brings out the best in us and everybody is doing good,” Houston said. “Owens is learning, Brent is doing good and Chevis… Everybody is stepping up and doing good.”

He said he likes what he sees from Owens. He’s also provided some advice on playing corner as a rookie.

“With the calls he is getting in defense, things are going kind of fast,” Houston said. “Once he gets in the game and he learns from his mistakes it will really come to him. I just tell him to take his time.”

J. Michael Moore News, Preseason, training camp Brent Grimes, Chevis Jackson, Chris Houston, Christopher Owens, Head Coach Mike Smith, injury, Russell Falcons Training Camp, San Diego Chargers, Thomas Brown, Von Hutchins

The Falcons defense was the talk of Atlanta sports after last week’s preseason loss. Linemen, linebackers and defensive backs also talked about the mistakes and what they needed to do to get better.

Friday in St. Louis the defense made the necessary adjustments and showed the speed and enthusiasm coaches have raved about since April’s NFL Draft.

The Falcons forced a punt on the Rams first series and weren’t afraid to blitz quarterback Kyle Boller on passing downs. One blitz forced a quick throw that was nearly intercepted by Brent Grimes. Another forced a short incompletion that Mike Peterson picked up as a fumble and rumbled toward the end zone.

Thus shows just a glimpse at the speed and aggressiveness that could be the Falcons defensive trademark in 2009 and beyond.

Peterson and the first-team defense did not allow a score and, when quarterback D.J. Shockley threw an interception giving the Rams their best chance of the first half, the Falcons held strong and forced a field goal.

For the second-straight week, Atlanta allowed just three points in the opening half.

Atlanta’s defense allowed just one rushing first down in first two quarters, held the rams to 107 net yards and got a turnover — a fumble by Samkon Gado recovered by rookie cornerback Christopher Owens.

The Rams had just 26 rushing yards in the half, 11 on a scramble by Boller.

EVEN MORE IN-GAME THOUGHTS…

… Shockley played the entire second quarter at quarterback, completing 2 of 6 passes for 7 yards and an interception. He had one nice throw on third-and-8 that went for 23 yards and a first down to Justin Peelle, but the play was oveturned on a penalty.

… Former Falcons receiver Laurent Robinson had a solid first half for the Rams, hauling in five catches for 65 yards. Robinson, a Falcons draft pick in 2007, got increased playing time with veteran Donnie Avery sitting out the game.

… Running back Jerious Norwood took over for Michael Turner after the first drive of the game and proved he can get some work done between the tackles. He got positive yards on most every run, sometimes shedding defenders at the line of scrimmage and fighting for a gain.

Norwood finished the first half with 8 carries for 36 yards.

… Rookie defensive end Lawrence Sidbury got the first sack of his career in the second quarter.

J. Michael Moore Gameday, News, Preseason, highlights Brent Grimes, D.J. Shockley, Gameday, highlights, Jerious Norwood, Justin Peelle, Lawrence Sidbury, Michael Turner, Mike Peterson, Preseason, St. Louis Rams

Michael Turner is ready for the regular season.

As if to make a point he’s not going to slow after a grueling, 376-carry season, the Pro Bowl running back has recorded two runs of 40 or more yards this preseason.

His 43-yard run on the second play of Friday’s preseason game in St. Louis was a large chunk of the 65 total yards he provided on an early touchdown drive.

He left the game after that series.

Turner also provided a score, powering ahead from 1-yard out to give the Falcons a lead with 9:50 remaining in the first period.

Turner looked both fleet of foot and strong of body on the drive, running behind each part of his offensive line.

The running back has been asked repeatedly in the offseason about following up a year where he shouldered the load in the running game.

The Falcons are looking for ways to limit his touches and keep him fresh through the year.

Thus far, the addition of Tony Gonzalez at tight end seems to be the best weapon to take some of the heat off Turner and the running game.

Speaking of Gonzalez, how about some…

FALCONS-RAMS IN-GAME THOUGHTS…

… Brett Romberg got the start for Todd McClure at center — a last-minute change after the veteran was banged up in practice earlier in the week. There were no ill effects from the move. If anything, it gave Ryan a chance to work with who could be the team’s backup center in 2009 before the team goes into the traditional, game-planning week associated with the third preseason game.

Ryan went a cool 7-of-8 for 81 yards and a touchdown in the opening quarter. He was replaced by D.J. Shockley in the second period.

… Eric Weems returned the opening kickoff, perhaps another sign he’s a leader to takeover return duties after a training camp injury to Harry Douglas. Weems also returned the first punt offered to the Falcons in the first quarter.

… Safe to say Gonzalez is a solid addition to the team’s offense. The 10-time Pro Bowler caught two passes on the second drive, the second for a 14-yard touchdown. To put it nicely, he took advantage cornerback Tye Hill.

… On defense, the Falcons showed improvement from last week but still gave up some big runs. The group forced a punt on the first possession and were aggressive in blitz calls. Brent Grimes almost got his first pick of the first season — a leaping grab on the sideline he juggled and dropped on his way to the ground.

J. Michael Moore Gameday, News, Preseason Brent Grimes, Brett Romberg, D.J. Shockley, Eric Weems, Gameday, Harry Douglas, highlights, Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, Preseason, St. Louis Rams, Todd McClure, Tony Gonzalez