J.Mike's Missives

Head Coach Mike Smith said he received a letter from the NFL office in New York Thursday morning informing him of a disciplinary fine for his role in a sideline altercation in Sunday’s game against the Redskins.

Smith said he accepts the fine and, along with his team, wants to move on to this week’s game against the Carolina Panthers.

“I want everyone to know I’ve moved on from it,” Smith said. “I moved on from it back on Sunday night when that play was over. I’m ready to get prepared for the Carolina Panthers.”

A skirmish broke out on the Atlanta sideline when former Falcons cornerback DeAngelo Hall got into a scuffle with coaches and players. The scuffle started after Redskins safety LaRon Landry was flagged for a late hit on quarterback Matt Ryan.

After the game Hall said he was accosted by coaches and he would file a formal complaint with the NFL.

According to published reports, Smith received a $15,000 fine for his interaction with Hall. Redskins defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth was fined $7,500. Landry was fined $5,000. Hall was reportedly not fined.

Smith did not comment on the fine amounts Thursday.

The coach did, however, make it clear he will always “have the backs” of his players. On Monday, Smith said he was trying to restore order on the sideline after the late hit to Ryan.

The second-year coach said he learned from the experience.

“Every day is a learning experience,” he said Thursday. “I think you’re a lifelong learner. You have to handle situations differently when you learn from them.”

Thursday, wide receiver Roddy White said the team will always come to the defense of its franchise quarterback, who he called “the future.” White was not on the sideline for the incident but added that, if he were, he may have done something “out of character.”

Fans on the FalconsLIFE Message Boards started taking a collection to help pay any possible fines early in the week. As of 2:15 p.m. Thursday the amount had climbed above $1,100. Smith said the action is “very nice to hear” but he’s ready to move on to a new opponent and continue the season.

“It’s been the last thing on my mind since Sunday afternoon,” he said. “My focus is getting prepared and getting this team ready to play the Carolina Panthers.”

J. Michael Moore News Albert Haynesworth, Carolina Panthers, DeAngelo Hall, Head Coach Mike Smith, LaRon Landry, Matt Ryan, NFL, Roddy White, 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

The ultimate goal is the playoffs, but this week’s target is to avoid a bona fide losing streak.

The Atlanta Falcons entered last week’s game against New Orleans having never lost back-to-back games in Mike Smith’s tenure as head coach. But, at the hands of the Saints, the Birds lost for the second time in two weeks.

Three in a row would put the team in some bad company — .500 at the halfway point with ground to make up.

The Falcons were 4-3 at this point last season as well but no time like the present (or a game against a 2-5 team with struggles on offense and the front office) to get back on track.

Matt Moore (@FalconsMMoore) talked about this and other topics in a new edition of Falconcast.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FALCONS-REDSKINS PREVIEW

While the Falcons match up well on paper with the Redskins — a team that hasn’t scored more than 17 points and fumbled 20 times — games at the Georgia Dome are played on turf.

Washington has the league’s fifth-best scoring defense and, while the record may not show it, the Redskins have been in games. All the team’s losses have come by 10 points or less.

Some things to keep in mind when you take a look at this week’s Keys to the Game:

• Attack the Redskins defense. There are Pro Bowlers at key Redskins positions. There are big names at others. That’s no reason to abandon the running game. Running back Michael Turner rushed for 151 yards and a score last week. A good running game will soften Washington’s No. 2-ranked pass defense. Keep in mind Roddy White had a 100-yard game in New Orleans and a 200-yard game when Turner rushed for three scores in San Francisco. Balance can be achieved.
• Win the special teams battle. You’ve probably heard of DeAngelo Hall, Sanrana Moss and Antwaan Randle El. They have one thing in common. They’re all listed on the depth chart as punt returners.
• Keep the intensity. Last season when the Falcons scored first the team went 11-1. This season, the record is 2-3. The only way that happens is if, like Smith said, the effort lacks after the opening minutes. Keep up the pressure on offense and defense — Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell has been sacked 20 times — and you avoid a third-straight loss.

MORE FALCONS-REDSKINS COVERAGE:

• GAMEDAY LIVE: More coverage in this special section of AtlantaFalcons.com
• GAME PREVIEW: More thoughts on the game from AF.com’s John Manasso
• GAME NOTES: Stats, fun facts and jersey information for Falcons-Redskins
• WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Some things you may not have known about this matchup
• J. MIKE’S MISSIVES: Thoughts on the game from the AF.com Managing Editor
• INJURY REPORT: Click here for the Piedmont Healthcare Injury Report
• GAME INFO: Pregame festivities and halftime entertainment information
• EXPERT’S TAKE: Trotter’s thoughts on the Falcons, NFL after eight weeks

J. Michael Moore Falconcast Antwaan Randle El, DeAngelo Hall, Head Coach Mike Smith, Jason Campbell, Matt Moore, Michael Turner, New Orleans Saints, Roddy White, Santana Moss, Washington Redskins

No, that’s not a photo of Christopher Owens.

That’s a previous Falcons No. 21 that went to two Pro Bowls as a shutdown corner.

You probably don’t need a guess but, if you took one, here’s the answer: DeAngelo Hall.

Hall, now a member of the Washington Redskins returns to the Georgia Dome for the first time since being traded to Oakland prior to the 2008 NFL Draft. He was released by the Raiders before the end of that season and signed with the Redskins.

He currently has 33 tackles, five passes defensed and three interceptions on a 2-5 team.

“No matter what happens on the other side of the ball or special teams, we can’t control that… If we have 50 plays or 80 plays it doesn’t matter; we have to be out there giving it our all,” Hall said Wednesdaay in a conference call with Atlanta media.

CLICK HERE FOR THE AUDIO AND OTHER MULTIMEDIA

Hall, who was one of the more outspoken players in the Falcons locker room during the brief Bobby Petrino era (2007) said he has no regrets. While he said time in Atlanta under Head Coach Mike Smith would “probably have worked out,” he’s happy with how his career has settled and rebounded.

“Would I change anything? Probably not. It’s made me a better person, a better father, a better player. I would do everything exactly the same. Even the debacle in Oakland, I wouldn’t change that because it wouldn’t have humbled me the way I am now and got me back as hungry as I am.”

Hall has emerged as a leader on a Redskins defense that’s carrying more of its share.

Washington’s offense has struggled but the defense ranks fifth in the NFL allowing just 17.6 points per game. The group is No. 2 against the pass, allowing 164.9 yards through the air.

Hall said he can’t wait to line up against Roddy White and keep an eye on Matt Ryan, who he classifies as one of the best young quarterbacks in the league. Hall said he’s also sent text messages to his teammates on the defensive line prepping them for how tough Atlanta’s offensive front will play.

“We’ve got a great test this week,” he said. “We’ve got a test against an Atlanta football field we feel is one of the top teams in their division.”

One thing Hall hasn’t considered is the reaction from the crowd that supported him in a Falcons uniform for the first four years of his career.

“I haven’t even thought about it,” he said. “They’re not introducing us in that stadium so it’s not like I’m going to get booed or applauded on the intro. It’s a football game that’s going to be played on Sunday, not me versus them. It’s going to be the Washington Redskins versus the Atlanta Falcons.”

J. Michael Moore News Bobby Petrino, conference call, DeAngelo Hall, Matt Ryan, Oakland Raiders, Roddy White, Washington Redskins

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

We all have bad days. But what about those bad days that include watching a highly-publicized defeat for your employer followed by a late-night plane ride?

Let’s just say it’s an interesting combination.

Sometimes after a tough loss, like the Falcons 37-21 day at Dallas, I find myself trying to get in the heads of players. I focus more on mental toughness than in-game decision making. I’m fascinated by professional athletes who, in the wake of plays good and bad, can refocus on the next pitch, snap or shot. With football’s weekly opera and buildup we’re left with the additional variables of time.

And redemption.

“We’ll get ‘em next time.”

Mondays after a loss aren’t completely different from Mondays after a win in Flowery Branch. There’s no time to be mellow, but you’ll spot some long faces for the first couple hours. If anything, the mood is slightly more positive than you’d expect because a chance at a rebound is just six or seven days away.

Today on my trip for morning coffee I passed Head Coach Mike Smith. As always, we greeted each other with a warm, “Good morning, how are you?”

Same thing happened after a Week 6 win over Chicago. Same thing will likely happen — win or lose — for the rest of the season.

The dynamics may be a little different, but you can never lose sight of the defining characteristic of the NFL. It’s a business.

Complete Falcons-Cowboys Game Coverage, AF.com
One final look before we hit the 24-hour mark. It’s not just a “rule of thumb,” it’s a way of life in the NFL.

Brooking: ‘It was a big game for me personally,’ Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I’ve received some Web-based messages from fans who weren’t too pleased with Keith Brooking on Sunday. I think this article does a good job summing up how emotion drives everything between the white lines. If you stop to think, it’s what makes the game great.

Romo, Austin hook up for 2 scores in Cowboys’ win, ESPN.com
Anyone who thought Miles Austin’s 250-yard game against the Chiefs was a fluke is eating a little crow.

Week Seven Morning Aftermath, ProFootballTalk.com
On next week’s game: “Win, and the NFC South is up for grabs.  Lose, and it’s time to jockey for a wild-card berth.”

Whatever happened to Michael Turner?, ESPN.com
Until today I think most Falcons fans didn’t consider the slowdown in the run game a huge problem, especially since the passing game was working well. Today things feel a little different.

Cowboys rip Falcons’ secondary to shreds, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Well that headline isn’t very nice.

This is the Cowboys team we expected, FoxSports.com
This is certainly a case where the Cowboys started to live up to expectations. But, given the Falcons 80-play touchdown drive to open the game and solid, three-and-out on defense a few plays later, you have to think something fell apart.

Romo frustrates Falcons defensive line, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Frustrated? Yes. Things started to unravel when Tony Romo escaped three defensive linemen to find Patrick Crayton with a first-half touchdown pass.

Defense contains Gonzalez, White, (Fort Worth) Star-Telegram
Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez are still Pro Bowl receivers. Sunday’s game was an example of the true importance of offensive line play.

5 things we learned from the Dallas game, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Something tells me more than ‘5′ things will be on the board when Smitty speaks to the team this week. Learning opportunities aren’t always easy.

J. Michael Moore Birdseed AF.com, AJC, Dallas Cowboys, ESPN.com, FoxSports.com, Head Coach Mike Smith, Keith Brooking, Michael Turner, Miles Austin, New Orleans Saints, NFC South, Patrick Crayton, ProFootballTalk.com, Roddy White, Star-Telegram, Tony Gonzalez, Tony Romo

The Falcons 80-yard touchdown drive to open the game was slow and methodical.

Quarterback Matt Ryan used surgeon-like precision to convert on four-straight third downs and place the ball exactly where his receiver, Roddy White, could get a hand on it for a score.

On defense, the Falcons started with speed and aggression.

The Cowboys went three-and-out on their first offensive possession and didn’t record a first down in the opening period.

But in the NFL, a sense of comfort is often rewarded with a Texas-sized dose of reality.

Dallas scored 17 unanswered points in the second quarter, including a 59-yard touchdown from Tony Romo to Miles Austin one play after a Ryan fumble. The Cowboys also added a field goal and ended the first half with a Houdini-like play where Romo escaped the grasp of three Falcons defensive linemen to find Patrick Crayton in the back of the end zone.

In all, Romo had 185 net passing yards in the first half. He had zero in the first quarter.

The Falcons allowed three quarterback sacks in the first half after going four games keeping Ryan upright and healthy. Michael Turner started to find some daylight, but it wasn’t enough to keep the offense in gear.

ADDITIONAL IN-GAME THOUGHTS…

… Tye Hill and Spencer Adkins (my neighbor on the bus ride to the game) are active for the first time this season. Hill didn’t get significant playing time in the first half while Adkins worked on special teams.

… Jamaal Anderson blew up a run play and tackled Marion Barber for a loss on the Cowboys second drive of the game. Notable mostly because he made the play from the defensive tackle position. Anderson put together a nice first half.

… It may seem odd considering the Cowboys three-headed monster at running back (Barber, Tashard Choice and Felix Jones) but Romo was the leading rusher in the first half — one attempt for 17 yards.

J. Michael Moore Gameday Dallas Cowboys, Felix Jones, Jamaal Anderson, Marion Barber, Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, Patrick Crayton, Roddy White, Spencer Adkins, Tashard Choice, Tony Romo, Tye Hill

With proper respect and reverence to the 1927 Yankees, the Falcons are in the midst of a Murders’ Row when it comes to an NFL schedule: Five of seven games on the road from Oct. 11 to Nov. 22, including back-to-back road games at Dallas (3-2) and NFC-leading New Orleans (6-0).

Thus far the Falcons (4-1) have held their own.

That’s not to say Sunday’s trip to Cowboys Stadium will be a cake walk.

Dallas is coming off a bye week. Then again, so where the Chicago Bears (the Falcons victim last weekend at the Georgia Dome).

But the Cowboys are a healthy team with few plan-changing injuries. Every player listed on the injury report this week in Dallas is probable for the games and the Falcons need to figure out how to rebound from a season-ending injury to starting cornerback Brian Williams.

Those are just a few topics Matt Moore (@FalconsMMoore) and I covered in a new edition of Falconcast.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FALCONS-COWBOYS PREVIEW

But isn’t there some sort of daunting drama every week?

By now the Falcons are used to the underdog role and playing away from home. Afterall, the team is a perfect 3-0 in the Pacific Time Zone under Head Coach Mike Smith and playing on the road has a way of circling the proverbial wagons.

If that’s not enough, the winner of this game certainly moves closer to positioning itself for a run at the playoffs.

Keys to the Game?

• Get familiar with the environment. This seems simple, but it’s very complicated. Cowboys Stadium is new. Few teams — and zero Falcons — have played there. Everything from the location of the play clock to the layout of the locker room must be learned quickly and focus must stay sharp.
• Contain the tight ends. Two weeks ago the Falcons bottled up Vernon Davis. Last week Greg Olsen had a touchdown and a 41-yard catch. This week, the team gets the pleasure of defending Jason Witten — the Cowboys top receiver. He’s a weapon the Birds must account for to be successful.
• Stretch the field. Could the Falcons be changing identities on offense? Not likely, but consider this. Tony Gonzalez and Roddy White are certainly capable pass catchers and Michael Turner and the run game hasn’t produced to 2008 levels. The team has had success using the pass to setup the run (remember Turner’s three-touchdown game against the 49ers?).

MORE FALCONS-COWBOYS COVERAGE:

• SCOUTING REPORT:Details on the Falcons and Cowboys running game
• FALCONCAST: J. Mike and Matt preview some aspects of Falcons-Cowboys
• ADDITIONAL HEADLINES: Transcripts and more from game week
• WHAT TO LOOK FOR: Stats to keep an eye on for Sunday’s game
• NUMBERS, NOTES, COLORS: Additional notes to get you ready for Sunday
• VIDEO INTERVIEWS: Video interviews and more Falcons-Cowboys multimedia
• INJURY REPORT: Injury updates on the Falcons and Cowboys
• J. MIKE’S MISSIVES: Thoughts on the game and additional headlines
• FALCONS BLOGS: More game coverage — and a look back — on the blog site

J. Michael Moore Falconcast Brian Williams, Chicago Bears, Cowboys Stadium, Dallas Cowboys, Greg Olsen, Head Coach Mike Smith, injury, Jason Witten, Keys to the Game, Matt Moore, Michael Turner, Roddy White, Tony Gonzalez

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the NFL is helping educate its fan base by allowing teams and players to add pink to the color palet.

Tonight at the Dome, Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan and wide receiver Roddy White will wear pink cleats. White and several other Falcons will also wear pink gloves. There will be pink towels on the sideline and the cheerleaders will carry pink pom-poms.

It may seem like a simple gesture, but it’s something that’s near the heart of countless NFL players who have family members afflicted with cancer.

Players like Verron Haynes.

He lost his sister, Kidine, to breast cancer. She was 26. “She would have been 31 two days ago,” Haynes said Friday.

So Haynes takes every chance he has to educate others on the importance of early detection and supporting women fighting the disease.

“A lot of families are affected by it throughout the world,” he said. “We’re not aware until it really hits home. That made me conscious of it and anything I can do to help the cause and raise awareness I take it upon myself.”

Haynes was the keynote speaker at a “Dazzle and Dine” event hosted by the Falcons Oct. 13 for five breast cancer survivors. He complimented the ladies for their personal fight and energy to fighting breast cancer and increasing education.

“Anytime I can go out and talk about breast cancer awareness and how important it is, I jump at the chance to do so,” he said. “Breast cancer has personally affected my family and my goal was to come out and talk to the ladies and encourage them to carry on the mission.”

J. Michael Moore Falcons in the Community, Feature, Gameday cancer, Chicago Bears, Matt Ryan, Roddy White, Verron Haynes

We’re in the middle of a busy week in Flowery Branch. Actually, busy, is probably too soft a word. (I should have known a week where an airplane is completely dedicated to the Falcons was going to be a bit out of control).

It’s a good thing.

When the Falcons return home for the only time in the month of October, the Georgia Dome will be a buzz with prime time activities. We all remember last year’s game against the Bears (you know, 12 seconds, Matt Ryan, Michael Jenkins, Jason Elam, field goal).

So doing extra work to make sure fans know all about what’s happening at the game — on the field and off — isn’t a big deal.

It’s Sunday Night Football. And the excitement has already started.

Pro Bowl wideout Booker adjusts to backup role, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Veterans don’t always come into starting roles late in their careers. But that doesn’t mean they don’t do vital jobs on a football team.

Introducing the Atlanta Falcons offense, Examiner.com
Better late than never. But I’d argue the Falcons offense was doing what it needed to do through the first three games as well. Just took a few weeks to get ready to explode.

NFC rankings: Elite meet with Falcons-Bears, Giants-Saints, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Falcons No. 5. Bears No. 6. Something has to give this weekend at the Georgia Dome.

Love affair for Falcons’ Ryan is growing, Yahoo Sports
Now that’s an interesting headline, especially from a sports columnist.

Brees, Ryan thriving when pressure is on, ESPN.com
The ‘Matty Ice’ nickname makes more and more sense each day.

Vantage Point, AF.com
One last word, or should I say ‘look’ at the big win over San Francisco.

http://video.atlantafalcons.com/video/175043/175043_2009-10-14-133416.flv

How I See It: NFC South Stock Watch, ESPN.com
If a 200-yard game didn’t get Roddy White’s football stock rising I’m not sure what would.

Mughelli suffered leg injury against 49ers, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Ovie Mughelli was listed on the injruy report during the week and did not return after leaving Sunday’s game. Should know more Wednesday when the team issues its first injury report of this week.

With Singletary Looking on, 49ers’ Bly Apologizes, The New York Times
I’ve covered the NFL for six years and yesterday’s Dre’ Bly apology was a first. Of course, his celebrating an interception in the middle of the field during a return was also a first.

Six touchdowns = Six toppings, Falcons Biz
Stay tuned to the “Falcons Biz” blog through the season for more notes on the Falcons offerings to fans and some notes on sports business.

Bears To Face Tough Challenge Versus Atlanta Sunday Night. Bleacher Report
Got some interesting comments from Elam in the Wednesday open locker room period about his game-winning kick against the Bears last season.

Bounce backs a part of the Atlanta Falcons game plan, Examiner.com
We’ve made it through one and a quarter seasons for the Mike Smith era and the Falcons have yet to lose back-to-back games.

Smith delivers Falcons quarterly report, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Speaking of quarters, the Falcons just finished the first (four out 16 games) of the 2009 season.

J. Michael Moore Birdseed AirTran, AJC, Chicago Bears, Dre' Bly, ESPN.com, Examiner.com, Falcons Biz, Georgia Dome, Head Coach Mike Smith, Jason Elam, Marty Booker, Matt Ryan, Michael Jenkins, Mike Singletary, Ovie Mughelli, Roddy White, Sunday Night Football, The New York Times, Vantage Point, video, Yahoo Sports