J.Mike's Missives

This weekend the Falcons take the I-85 rivalry to a different level.

Saturday afternoon the team will climb aboard charter buses and burn rubber on the way to Charlotte and a date with the Carolina Panthers.

But this isn’t the first trip by bus for the Falcons in this series.

The Georgia Dome and Bank of America Stadium are separated by 251 miles of asphalt. The Falcons practice facility in Flowery Branch is significantly closer, so a bus trip will actually be complete about an hour before the team would make it by air. After a little research (a.k.a asking Time Machine’s Frank Kleha) I found out the Birds traveled by bus in 1995 to face the Panthers at Clemson, the first year of the franchise.

After an exhaustive search, I found footage of that trip…

On a related note, the team did not accept my suggestion for alternate transportation.

Several Falcons players were asked about the bus trip this week, most of which saying they haven’t gone to a game by wheel since college — or high school. Head Coach Mike Smith said the equipment staff has made the trip by truck for years and always beats the team there and back (I can attest to that). So, on paper, this one is a no brainier.

Your thoughts?

Can some time on America’s highways really build some extra team camaraderie?

Davis injury typifies Panthers’ woes, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
This could be a huge advantage for the Falcons, but Landon Johnson, Davis’ replacement does have a start this season.

Quotable: Head Coach Mike Smith, AF.com
Thursday Smith talked about the league’s decision to fine him for his actions in last week’s game against the Redskins. For more on the fine and what happened, click here.

Atlanta fans just fine with Smith, ESPN.com
I’m still waiting on official word to find out what will be done with money raised by fans. Charity donation is an option. Either way, what a cool thing to do. I think the amount is pushing $2,000.

Atlanta Falcons midseason report, Examiner.com
If memory serves me, the Falcons were 5-3 at this point last season as well. They went on to finish 11-5. Encouraging comment about the 2009 Birds: I think we all can agree the best football is yet to be played.

What to Watch for in Week 10, AF.com
Jay Cutler officially moved past Jake Delhomme for the league-lead in interceptions Thursday night. But that doesn’t change the Panthers recent history of turnovers.

Market report: Smitty gets fined, but his stock surely rises, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“I’m thinking there are 53 guys based in Hall County who’d be glad to take up a collection.”

Superfan Cartoon: “Pantie Raid!,” The Canvas, by Superfan
It’s that time again! I love the use of the Pink Panther. It makes too much sense.

Numbers, Notes and Colors for Week 10, AF.com
Each week there’s a collection of stats and notes that give you an overview of the game at hand. This is that collection.

The all-NFC South midseason defense, ESPN.com
Congrats to Curtis Lofton, Mike Peterson and Jonathan Babineaux. Hard to congratulate a division rival for sweeping the secondary category but it’s also hard to argue with Pat Yasinskas on this one.

J. Michael Moore Birdseed AF.com, AJC, Bank of America Stadium, Carolina Panthers, Curtis Lofton, ESPN.com, Examiner.com, Fans, Frank Kleha, Friday Pep Talk, Georgia Dome, Head Coach Mike Smith, History, Jake Delhomme, Jay Cutler, Jonathan Babineaux, Landon Johnson, Mike Peterson, Pat Yasinskas, rivalry, Superfan, Thomas Davis, Time Machine, travel, video, Washington Redskins

As expected, mid-season television numbers for the NFL are through the roof.

You can check out some of the details with Falcons Biz blogger Dan (the numbers and anecdotes are mind-boggling). For example, The second-most watched sporting event since Super Bowl XLIII was the Falcons-Cowboys game from earlier this season.

Stats don’t lie and the increasing popularity of the NFL is something to get excited about. Strange to think about the times in my youth when I would sit down to watch football and, though it was No. 1 on my radar, it wasn’t near the level of prominence it is today.

As a special recognition to the history of the NFL on television, I hit YouTube for gems.

Oh how far television technology has come. Luckily football has stayed pretty much the same. Nothing like the comfort of consistency to help popularity.

Despite locker-room joking, Gonzalez happy with ad, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Let’s get this one out of the way. Now… Deep breath… On to football.

A Look Head: Look Harder, The Falcoholic
The second-half of the Falcons season doesn’t look as daunting as some other teams but the trip to Carolina and a pair of games in New York won’t be easy.

Panthers vs. Falcons Preview, CBSSports.com
That’s right. Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme has five touchdowns to an NFL-high 13 interceptions. Had to double check that eye-opening stat.

Finneran takes part in walk-through, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
If the team doesn’t have Brian Finneran on Sunday the wide receiver depth chart goes from healthy to thin pretty quickly.

Midseason Report: Falcons, ESPN.com
We all knew the Falcons would have growing pains coming into the season. But some creative coaching and personnel moves have kept the team on track.

A Very Falcoholic Discussion: Curtis Lofton, The Falcoholic
“Curtis Lofton is the man.” Enough said.

Forbes unkind to Atlanta teams (especially Thrashers, Falcons), Atlanta Journal-Constitution
If you’re concerned with X’s and O’s, this doesn’t interest you much. But an appreciation of the business of sports can actually make it more fun to watch.

The All-NFC South midseason offense, ESPN.com
Congrats to Ovie Mughelli, Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez

Falcons are not getting much mid-season love, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I’ve thought about the “lack of love” myself. Perhaps the Falcons aren’t getting recognition (despite a solid 5-3 record) is because of raised expectations. Hard to get rewarded for something everyone expects you to do. For a different spin on mid-season awards from NFL.com, click here.

Best free-agent moves also were the most understated, NFL.com
The Falcons may have been quiet in free agency, but the moves they made are panning out.

J. Michael Moore Birdseed AJC, Brian Finneran, Carolina Panthers, Curtis Lofton, Dallas Cowboys, Dan Levak, ESPN.com, Falcons Biz, Forbes, Jake Delhomme, Mike Peterson, NFL.com, Ovie Mughelli, PETA, Roddy White, Super Bowl XLIII, television, The Falcoholic, Tony Gonzalez, video

Jason Snelling and Thomas Johnson were limited, but the running back and defensive tackle returned to the Falcons practice field Wednesday according to Head Coach Mike Smith.

Snelling, who led the team in rushing yards two weeks ago in Dallas, has been nursing a hamstring injury. Johnson, who took over as starting nose tackle when Peria Jerry went on injured reserve, has dealt with calf problems the past two games.

Smith talked about the team’s health and most of the Panthers defensive personnel when he met with the media…

Other injury concerns are on offense, where left tackle Sam Baker (ankle) and wide receiver Brian Finneran (knee) missed practice. Smith said Finneran, who has undergone two major knee surgeries in his career, “moved around a little bit in the walk-through” but it could be a game-time decision on his playing status.

Running back Jerious Norwood also missed practice for personal reasons. According to Smith, the fourth-year pro welcomed a new baby Wednesday.

CLICK HERE FOR THE PIEDMONT HEALTHCARE INJURY REPORT

ADDITIONAL NOTES FROM WEDNESDAY…

… Tight end Tony Gonzalez and many of his offensive teammates were quizzed about a new ad campaign featuring the Pro Bowler and his wife, October. It will certainly raise some eyebrows. Most interviewed said they can appreciate the passion Gonzalez has to support a unique campaign (this one is for PETA). “We should be protecting animals, not sacrificing their lives for the sake of fashion or luxury,” Gonzalez said in a release from PETA. “October and I have changed many of our habits in light of the inhumane treatment of animals that occurs not only in the fur industry but also on factory farms.”

… Smith did not speculate on how many wins his team may need to make the playoffs in the NFC. Too early to tell. This was, of course, the answer everyone expected: “There are so many things that can happen in the second half of the season and when you get into November and December there are so many people that are still in the mix,” the coach said. “I don’t know of anyone who is mathematically eliminated at this point in time.”

… The Falcons practiced indoors Wednesday because of soggy field conditions. According to Smith, more than 4.5 inches of rain fell in Flowery Branch Monday night and Tuesday.

… When it comes to the Panthers offense, the Falcons are looking at the running game. DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart have combined for more than 1,100 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns this season. In a Week 2 meeting between the teams, the backs combined for 144 yards and a score. Of course, it’s never easy to beat a team twice in one season. “They get up for you,” linebacker Mike Peterson said. “No one wants to be beat twice. They’re going to look at the tape and I’m sure the coach is going to be on them hard this week but we’re ready.”

… Carolina spent the time since the last game with the Falcons improving the defensive line. Preseason injuries took their toll, but now the Panthers have added veteran Hollis Thomas and traded for former Chiefs starter Tank Tyler at defensive tackle. “They’re playing well right now,” quarterback Matt Ryan said. “We felt like it was a good defense when we played them the first time… With that said, they’re playing well right now and we have our work cut out for us.”

J. Michael Moore News Brian Finneran, Carolina Panthers, DeAngelo Williams, Head Coach Mike Smith, Hollis Thomas, injury, Jason Snelling, Jerious Norwood, Jonathan Stewart, Matt Ryan, Mike Peterson, NFC South, Peria Jerry, PETA, playoffs, Sam Baker, Tank Tyler, Thomas Johnson, Tony Gonzalez

If I had a nickel for every time I read a message board post or hear a fan comment on the “disrespect” of the Falcons in the national media I’d have about $1.20 (takes a lot of nickels to build revenue).

But that doesn’t change the fact that, when it comes to one piece of recognition, fans have a vote.

Voting for the 2010 Pro Bowl is underway (click here for a ballot).

Two Falcons went to the annual all-star game last season: Michael Turner and Roddy White. Fan voting isn’t the only factor in selection (players and coaches also get a vote), but it can build publicity.

These numbers will change, but take note of a few Falcons who could be featured on Pro Bowl ballots across the country:

• Roddy White — Leads team with 33 catches for 435 yards and five touchdowns.
• Michael Turner — Leads team with 118 carries for 403 yards and seven touchdowns
• Matt Ryan — A Pro Bowl alternate last year, currently has 11 touchdown passes, six interceptions and a 90.2 passer rating.
• John Abraham — Tied for team lead with three sacks.
• Curtis Lofton — Team leader with 49 solo tackles, two passes defensed and two forced fumbles.
• Tony Gonzalez — A new favorite target of Ryan’s, currently has 33 catches and three touchdowns.
• Mike Peterson — Four tackles for loss, an interception, a sack, four passes defensed and two forced fumbles.

J. Michael Moore Awards, Fans, News Curtis Lofton, Fans, John Abraham, Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, Mike Peterson, Pro Bowl, Roddy White, Tony Gonzalez

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

In my previous life as editor and publisher of Broncos Magazine, I wrote a story of Jay Cutler’s first day in Denver.

We chatted on the 45-minute ride from the airport to the team practice facility and I followed him through what was a momentous day in his personal — and Broncos — history.

Within minutes of arriving at Dove Valley, Cutler was at a breakfast table with a plate of scrambled eggs and a playbook. To his right, the team’s quarterback’s coach. To his left, the offensive coordinator.

No mistake, he was Denver’s quarterback of the future: the newest man to live in the shadow of John Elway.

But the future didn’t work out as planned.

Cutler started late in his rookie season and the Broncos missed the playoffs. Denver missed the postseason the next two years with Cutler as the unquestioned franchise quarterback and, after the 2008 season, long-time head coach Mike Shanahan, the man who drafted Cutler, was asked to leave.

Cutler and new coach Josh McDaniels didn’t see eye to eye after reports of trade talks. A few weeks later the former Vanderbilt star was in Chicago starting a new life as the franchise quarterback of another team. The Broncos are now 5-0 with Kyle Orton as the starter and the Bears — the Falcons opponent tonight at the Georgia Dome — are off to a 3-1 start.

It’s worth mentioning Cutler was the only visiting quarterback to win a game in the Dome last season, so the Falcons are aware of his talent and experience.

“I played with John Elway and he’s right up there as far as arm strength, and that’s saying something,” said kicker Jason Elam who played with Cutler in Denver and is now in his second year with the Falcons.

Cutler threw for more than 4,000 yards in his last year in Denver and, though he started his inaugural season with the Bears with a four-interception game at Green Bay, he’s rebounded to take advantage of some of the fastest receivers in the NFL.

His arm strength is key, but his mobility allows for the extension of plays and creates a test for the Falcons defense.

“You have to stay in coverage a little longer because he can make all the throws,” veteran linebacker Mike Peterson said.

Cutler threw for 216 yards and a touchdown in a Broncos win over the Falcons last season. He was sacked once.

Disrupting Cutler’s rhythm likely includes a heavy dose of pressure. He’s fumbled five times as a Bear and can get frustrated if he’s contained and forced to throw with a hand in his face.

That’s all covered in playbook study sessions.

But John Abraham and Co. can make Cutler’s breakfast a little uneasy in the stomach.

J. Michael Moore Feature, Gameday Chicago Bears, Denver Broncos, Jason Elam, Jay Cutler, John Abraham, John Elway, Josh McDaniels, Kyle Orton, Mike Peterson, Mike Shanahan

The Falcons defense sat on the sideline for more than 17 minutes in the second half of Sunday’s game against Carolina — the trademark of an offense doing its job and controlling the clock.

But, with the lead on the line and the clock running down, the Panthers found ways to take advantage of any and all rust that accumulated during that time on the sideline.

With under three minutes to play Atlanta’s division rival lined up in the red zone.

Quarterback Jake Delhomme threw four interceptions in a loss last week. Now he had a shot at redemption and a chance to tie this division game at 28.

On fourth down Delhomme dropped back with plenty of time. As he threw to his left, John Abraham and Kroy Biermann closed in and Steve Smith got a piece of daylight at the goal line.

A split second later, the ball was in cornerback Chris Houston’s hands.

“I just played the coverage called,” said Houston, a third-year starter. “Steve Smith ran an in-and-out and I just played with my eyes and made a play on the ball.”

Fitting redemption for a secondary that allowed 296 passing yards Sunday and took its share of scrutiny in the preseason.

Atlanta was forced to punt on its next possession, giving the Panthers a shot. But 0:40 seconds wasn’t enough time to mount a comeback and the home team left the field with a 28-20 win.

It was a key victory for Atlanta on “Throwback Weekend.” Two weeks into 2009 Atlanta is tied with New Orleans at the top of the NFC South (2-0). But, perhaps more important, don’t underestimate the power of momentum on the defense, which heads to New England next week to face the pass-happy Patriots.

The Falcons offense was the story of the game.

Matt Ryan set a new career mark by throwing for three touchdowns in a half. Michael Turner rushed for 105 yards on a game-high 28 carries. Tony Gonzalez was, well, Tony Gonzalez: seven catches, 71 yards and a touchdown. Wide receiver Roddy White also got in the action, catching six balls for 53 yards and a score.

The Panthers and Falcons combined for 811 yards of offense.

But, as is the case in many NFL contest, the defense needed to win the endgame.

And the Falcons played it well.

Houston’s pick may have been the big play, but the defensive unit all but eliminated the Panthers running game in the final quarter and, though Carolina racked up the passing totals, the prevent defense did its job.

Mike Peterson was credited with a team-high nine tackles, a pass defensed and a forced fumble. Safety Erik Coleman was No. 2 (eight tackles and a forced fumble.

The unit got a pair of turnovers, bringing the season total to six; The offense gave its counterpart the respite it needed.

But there’s no rest. Week 3 approaches.

“We had a number of miscues and some good plays,” Head Coach Mike Smith said. “I can assure you that when we get back to Flowery Branch tomorrow, we’ll be talking more about the miscues than the good plays because we’ve got a lot of things we can improve on. We had a bunch of good football plays out there by both teams. I thought it was a very exciting game.”

MORE FROM THE FALCONS-PANTHERS GAME:

• GAMEDAY LIVE: More Falcons-Panthers coverage from AF.com
• GAME CENTER: Stats and more from the NFL.com Game Center
• FEATURE: Ryan knows his work is not done
• BLOG: Gameday thoughts from Managing Editor J. Michael Moore
• FIRST TAKE: Head Coach Mike Smith | Ryan | Snelling | Lofton | White
• NFL NETWORK: Highlights and more on the game from NFL Network
• INTERVIEWS: Turner | Houston | Finneran | Falcons-Panthers
• GAME NOTES: Official game notes from the Georgia Dome press box
• QUOTES: Thoughts from the Falcons locker room | Panthers
• INACTIVES: Game inactives and starters
• BOARDS: Talk about the game with other fans on FalconsLIFE

J. Michael Moore Gameday Carolina Panthers, Chris Houston, Erik Coleman, Head Coach Mike Smith, Jake Delhomme, John Abraham, Kroy Biermann, Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, Mike Peterson, Roddy White, Steve Smith, Tony Gonzalez

Equate this to the semi truck that takes a while to get to highway speed but, once rolling, will take out anything that gets in its way.

The Falcons offense stumbled out of the gates but Matt Ryan and Co. got hot to start the second half and, to this point, have done little to cool off. Atlanta carried a 21-13 lead into the third quarter and extended that by a score as the fourth quarter got underway.

The Birds held the ball for 11:09 in the third period, twice going for it on fourth-and-inches inside the Carolina 25 (success) and getting Michael Turner and the run game going after early difficulties.

A fumble may have killed the team’s first red zone drive of the half, but the Falcons made up for that with a steady dose of the rush and surgical-like precision from Ryan who, at one point, completed 13 straight passes.

A rested defense is a better defense and the Falcons were able to force another turnover (fifth of the season) when Mike Peterson separated DeAngelo Williams from the ball with 4:15 to play in the third.

Turner got into the end zone for the first time on the ensuing possession, giving the Falcons a two-score advantage as the clock ticked away in the final period.

Through three quarters, the Pro Bowl running back had 18 carries for 80 yards.

SOME IN GAME OBSERVATIONS…

… Looks can be deceiving, but seeing Peria Jerry come off the field in the fourth quarter with an injury was a little concerning. He was replaced by Thomas Johnson, who was already getting steady playing tme in the defensive line rotation.

… With 6:45 left in the game Head Coach Mike Smith threw the challenge flag for the third time. Unfortunately, the latest review went against the Falcons and gave the Panthers a touchdown. Smith and the Birds won the previous two red-flag requests.

J. Michael Moore Gameday Carolina Panthers, DeAngelo Williams, Head Coach Mike Smith, injury, Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, Mike Peterson, Peria Jerry, Thomas Johnson

Matt Ryan threw his first interception of the 2009 season with 3:50 remaining in the first quarter of Sunday’s game against Carolina.

At the time, the Falcons trailed the Panthers 3-0.

But, before two more minutes of game clock elapsed, the Falcons had turned the momentum of the game and Ryan was on his way to a career milestone.

Cornerback Brian Williams blocked a punt with 1:46 remaining in the quarter. It was recovered by linebacker Mike Peterson and returned to the Atlanta 47. Ryan went 2-for-2 for 48 yards and a touchdown on the next series, hitting Tony Gonzalez for a go-ahead touchdown.

The reigning Associated Press Rookie of the Year threw two more touchdowns in the first half to give the Falcons a 21-13 lead at intermission.

It marked the first time in his young career he notched a trio of scores in a half.

It wasn’t the “throwback,” smash mouth, hard-nosed offensive performance some expected from the Falcons, who suited up in 1966 replica jerseys. Instead, it was the Panthers who ran the ball effectively, with DeAngelo Williams rushing for a touchdown and Jonathan Stewart working between the tackles.

Michael Turner rushed for 32 yards in the opening period, while Jason Snelling — filling in for an injured Jerious Norwood — rushed for 33 yards and caught a touchdown pass.

Pro Bowl wide receiver Roddy White recorded the Falcons other touchdown.

Carolina entered the game with what outsiders declared an all-out quarterback “situation.” Jake Delhomme threw four interceptions a week ago and turning the ball over simply isn’t an option when looking to win games and go to the playoffs.

Perhaps in an effort to get Delhomme in a groove, the Panthers took to the air and put together an early field goal drive. For his efforts, the quarterback finished the opening period 4-0f-8 for 54 yards (one sack).

Ryan threw for more yards in the first half (152). The Panthers rushed for a combined 115 yards.

It was a flip of the script few expected.

But, for the first half, the Falcons will take it.

SOME IN-GAME BLOG THOUGHTS…

… On the last play of the first half Delhomme threw the Hail Mary to the end zone. Th Falcons knocked the ball away and trotted into the locker room with a 21-13 lead but Panthers Pro Bowler Steve Smith stayed on the turf in obvious pain. As members of the Falcons 1966 squad was honored at midfield, trainers helped Smith to his feed and led him slowly to the locker room.

J. Michael Moore Gameday Brian Williams, Carolina Panthers, DeAngelo Williams, injury, Jason Snelling, Jerious Norwood, Jonathan Stewart, Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, Mike Peterson, Roddy White, throwback, Tony Gonzalez

When division rivals get together — especially rivals with two of the best running games in the NFL — turf and sweat is sure to fly.

Expect a tough battle between the Falcons and Panthers Sunday afternoon at the Georgia Dome when the uniforms aren’t the only thing that will be “throwback.”

Both teams currently rank 15th or less in rushing yards per game. But that’s just one contest. Michael Turner and DeAngelo Williams represent the heart of two offenses that work best when controling the line of scrimmage.

In other words, the Falcons and Panthers love the simple things about the game.

Toughness, grit, determination, “11 men doing their job.”

Take it from here Bear!

Sometimes we make this game too complicated.

Sometimes we all have to remember how simple things can be.

Keep an eye out for passion on this throwback weekend.

Hard work nothing new for Falcons defensive end, AF.com
Here is a perfect example of the “why” used when curious about a player’s dedication. A unique story to go with a unique member of the Falcons team.

Panthers QB Delhomme still worries Falcons, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I never thought the Panthers would go with another quarterback this weekend. Now, if he has a repeat performance from Week 1…

William Middleton glad to be back home with the Atlanta Falcons, Examiner.com
This must have felt like an eternity for Middleton. Especially since it felt like so much longer than a week to me.

“The Beer Man” steps forward on Falcons’ defense, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Wondering if there’s a better nickname out there for Biermann. Wondering…

In Jake we still trust, ESPN.com
You get the feeling fans really love Delhomme in Carolina (remember, he took the team to a Super Bowl). You also get the feeling players are with him through thick and thin. But a few rough performances strung together on a football field can change a lot about perception.

Why The Atlanta Falcons Need LB Mike Peterson, The Falcoholic
The “process” in Atlanta doesn’t include many free agent signings. So, when you see one, you better believe it’s to make an impact.

Leading a defense and loving football? That’s more like Mike, CBSSports.com
“I can make more plays now that I couldn’t make in the middle,” (Peterson) said. “I can get more big hits. You get running starts to the ball carrier.”

Video: NFC South Blogger’s Blitz, ESPN.com
NFC South Blogger — and friend of the program — Pat Yasinskas breaks down the division.

Throwback helmets provide flashback for Peterson, ESPN.com
I wonder how many NFL players played quarterback as kids. Is it like the amount of baseball players who pitched? Anyone know the answer? Anyone even listening…

How Carolina might get it right against the Falcons, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The optimism for this game is moving into uncharted territory. Remember, this is still the NFL. Parity is the name of the game.

J. Michael Moore Birdseed AF.com, AJC, Bear Bryant, CBSSports.com, DeAngelo Williams, ESPN.com, Examiner.com, Friday Pep Talk, Jake Delhomme, Kroy Biermann, Michael Turner, Mike Peterson, motivation, NFC South, Pat Yasinskas, The Falcohlic, throwback, video, William Middleton