J.Mike's Missives

Who says there’s no good news coming out of Flowery Branch?

Thursday Head Coach Mike Smith confirmed running back Jerious Norwood returned to the practice field. The fourth-year pro was limited, but it’s a welcome sign of progression for the speedster, who suffered a concussion earlier in the season and, more recently, hurt his hip.

Norwood hasn’t played in a game since Oct. 18 and has just 19 carries for 78 yards on the year.

However, no additional good news on Pro Bowl running back Michael Turner (ankle sprain), who missed a second-straight day of practice. Smith said Wednesday Turner had “made a lot of strides” since injuring his right ankle Sunday afternoon. Thursday, Smith said a time table for the back’s return has not been set.

If the team doesn’t have Turner’s services, the sting would be lightened with Norwood in the lineup. The Falcons got a good day from Jason Snelling in the backfield last week and re-signed 10-year veteran running back Aaron Stecker for depth.

“It was good to get Jerious Norwood back out there,” Smith said (video). “That was a positive. Now we just have to wait and see how he responds to the work he got today.

“He looked good. You see that speed and Jerious’ smile out there breaking in and out of the huddle.”

Norwood certainly puts another big play threat into the offense. He’s averaged 5.7 yards per carry over his career, has shown skill as a slot receiver out of the backfield and was a centerpiece in the Falcons version of the “wildcat” formation in 2008, where the running back takes a direct snap with the quarterback split out as a wide receiver.

He’s also been a fixture in the “Birdseed” formation, which hasn’t left the blog-room drawing board yet…

What to Watch For in Week 11, AF.com
If you’re going to pay attention to just a few things in Sunday’s game, make sure you look at this page first.

A Look Ahead and the Shrinking Schedule, The Falcoholic
Will 10-6 get you into the NFC playoffs? Tough to say, but 11 wins would certainly be a safer bet.

Ryan is working through a ‘rough stretch,’ Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Matt Ryan watches the office? This opens up endless opportunities in the blog when it comes to YouTube clips and satire. Must… Contain… Funny… Bone…

Falcons share early Thanksgiving with students, AF.com
Thanksgiving is a favorite holiday of the J. Mike Family. Too bad it always sneaks up on us.

If Michael Turner Is Out, Let’s Discuss Our Other Options, The Falcoholic
Still waiting for a time line on Michael Turner’s return to the field. So now is as good a time as any to start figure out what the options are in the running game in case of a long-term absence.

Snelling ready to try to fill Turner’s cleats, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
With Norwood returning to practice, Falcons fans can be hopeful the team will have a compliment of three running backs on Sunday — Norwood, Snelling and Stecker.

Sophomore slump slowing flight path of Falcons’ Ryan, USA Today
“I think there are ups and downs of every season,” Ryan said. “There are a lot of things to learn from. You have to learn from your mistakes, bounce back.”

Falcons Coach on Parting Ways With Boley, The New York Times
It seems the former Falcons linebacker will also be the Giant responsible for shutting down Pro Bowl tight end Tony Gonzalez.

Turner not ruling himself out for Giants game, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
And, so far, neither are the Falcons…

Numbers, Notes and Colors for Week 11, AF.com
White jerseys, winning streaks and more in this notes column from New Media Intern Vance.

Falcons’ video crew sees all, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Make no mistake, the video, equipment and public relations staffs have some of the hardest working men in Flowery Branch

Bergeron rejoins Falcons practice squad roster, AF.com
The former Georgia Force receiver has quickly become a fan favorite.

J. Michael Moore Birdseed Aaron Stecker, AF.com, Georgia Force, Head Coach Mike Smith, injury, Jason Snelling, Jerious Norwood, Matt Ryan, Michael Boley, Michael Turner, New Media Intern Vance, New York Giants, NFC, The Falcoholic, The New York Times, The Office, Tony Gonzalez, Troy Bergeron

Jason Elam knows the life of a kicker is often lonely.

But when he gets attention, it’s for one of two reasons: A game winning kick or a miss that could have made a difference in the outcome of a game.

Elam missed a 34-yard field goal attempt in the fourth quarter Sunday that would have given the Falcons a 22-21 lead. Sunday night and Monday morning, he found himself in the spotlight as the Falcons eventually fell to the Carolina Panthers, 28-19.

http://video.atlantafalcons.com/video/193029/193029_2009-11-16-124947.flv
Click here for more reaction from Panthers-Falcons

Replay of the kick clearly shows a timing issue between snapper, holder and kicker. Elam said he would watch video of the play with holder Michael Koenen and snapper Bryan Pittman.

“Yeah, I got going a little too early; bottom line the ball was down and I didn’t make it,” Elam said Monday. “I’m fine with taking the blame on that one.”

Elam made it clear he’s taking responsibility for the miss, though he did mention the process involved — snap, hold, kick — and how even after hundreds of tries mistakes can happen.

Pittman was playing in just his second game as a Falcon on Sunday, joining the team two weeks ago when Mike Schneck went on injured reserve.

“The missed field goal yesterday we did not handle the operation of the snap, hold and kick very well and when that operation does not go smoothly, it puts stress on the attempt,” Head Coach Mike Smith said. “Jason has not kicked the ball as well as he has in the past. And it definitely is a concern for us.”

Elam, who has missed five kicks this year, said the only way to fix problems is with repetition, film study and trusting the process.

“You just have to keep swinging,” he said. “History tells me that’s what you need to do. Keep doing what got you there and, more times than not, it’s going to work. It just didn’t work on that one particular play…

“You just keep going.”

Simple advice for just about anyone I suppose.

Now let’s all keep going on some Birdseed and put this game in the past.

Complete Falcons-Panthers game coverage, AF.com
It wasn’t a game you want to relive many times, but the only way to learn from mistakes is to watch them… Multiple times if necessary.

Falcons RB Turner will undergo tests on injured right ankle, NFL.com
For more on Michael Turner’s ankle injury, check out The Beat Blog.

Falcons won’t go anywhere if Ryan doesn’t figure things out, CBSSports.com
Amazed at how opinions change so quickly in the NFL. I know players aren’t allowed to break down, make mistakes or otherwise slump but sometimes I wonder if George Burns was right (thank you, Bart Simpson)…

Post-Game Thread: Falcons Get Dropped By Panthers, 28-19, The Falcoholic
You can have ugly wins and you can have ugly losses. But only one makes fans happy.

Falcons melt down on the road against Panthers, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
To quote the head ball coach: Falcons made “way too many mistakes in all three phases.”

In first career start, Will Svitek held his own for Atlanta Falcons, Examiner.com
Much like Todd Weiner in 2008, Will Svitek is called upon to backup — and play well — at right and left tackle.

Falcons And Panthers Recap: When Everything Goes Wrong, The Falcoholic
When everything goes wrong, you circle the wagons and figure out how to escape the situation. The Falcons have had their backs to the wall before. Maybe not so prevalent, but it’s happened. And success is an option.

Falcons’ defense was no match for Panthers, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Curious how the Panthers, a running team, installed a robust no-huddle offense. Teams that face Carolina down the road will look at the Falcons game take for guidance.

Has the (Matty) Ice Age ended?, ESPN.com
Great headline. Story isn’t the favorite reading of Falcons fans, but I have to give love to the blogger and copy editor.

Three keys to the Falcons loss to the Panthers, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Smith said removing Tye Hill from the game was a coach’s decision. Sometimes at cornerback you have to play the matchups.

Harvey Dahl: Catching up with ‘the NFL’s meanest,’ Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Get to know one of the toughest guys on the Falcons roster and see how looks, off the field, can be deceiving.

J. Michael Moore Birdseed AF.com, AJC, Bryan Pittman, Carolina Panthers, CBSSports.com, ESPN.com, Examiner.com, Harvey Dahl, Head Coach Mike Smith, Jason Elam, Matt Ryan, Michael Koenen, Michael Turner, Mike Schneck, The Beat Blog, The Falcoholic, The Simpsons, Todd Weiner, Tye Hill, Will Svitek

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

Much easier to identify key points from a Falcons loss than list all the accolades from a big win.

“Win as a team, lose as a team” seems very appropriate after the Falcons 31-17 win over the Washington Redskins Sunday afternoon. We can highlight Michael Turner’s big runs, but that was the talk of gameday.

Instead, let’s take a moment to give some props to the defense.

The unit entered Sunday’s game ranked 17th in the league in opponent points per game (a key stat to remember before poring over pass or run yardage). Sunday the Falcons got their second defensive score in as many games and helped the Redskins extend a less-than-flattering streak of not scoring more than 17 points in 2009.

The Falcons have recorded at least one interception in six of eight games this season and, entering Week 9, helped the team to a plus-4 turnover margin (eighth in the NFL). Atlanta has just one game without a sack this season and Sunday tied a team record with five sacks in the first half.

All this with a new starter at cornerback (Tye Hill) and two Week 1 starters (Brian Williams and Peria Jerry) on injured reserve.

Not bad at all.

Before we get into Birdseed, here are some things to look for in Head Coach Mike Smith’s Monday press conference:

• Injury updates. Smitty usually doesn’t reveal details on injuries on Monday, but we may get a little more info on wide receiver Brian Finneran, who left the game with a knee injury.
• The skirmish. Likely some follow-up questions on the incident on the sideline between DeAngelo Hall and the Falcons bench after a late hit penalty.
• Second half slowdown. Smith talked at length last week about his team’s need to play for 60 minutes. Whether it was good adjustments by the Redskins or a letdown, the Falcons had only one possession in the third quarter and the Redskins scored 14 unanswered points. I guess that’s what 24-3 halftime leads are for.

Complete Falcons-Redskins Coverage, AF.com
For additional stats and highlight videos, visit the official NFL.com Game Center.

Smith leads Falcons again — in game and rumble, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“The Falcons responded to their first two-game losing streak under Smith by doing what good teams do. They beat a bad team.”

Redskins’ Hall accuses two Falcons coaches of misconduct in melee, NFL.com
Going to throw this into Birdseed for record-keeping purposes. My gut is that the whole thing is going to fade into the background.

Falcons End Uneven Effort With 31-17 Win Over Redskins, The Falcoholic
I almost forgot about Jonathan Babineaux! Actually, I did until The Falcoholic reminded me. Great game by the defensive tackle.

Turner busts Washington for 166 yards, 2 TDs, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Turner fantasy owners rejoice!

Hill’s interception boosts Falcons, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Not only the interception, but the interception return… The Falcons defense is doing something it didn’t do much last season: scoring.

Zorn cautious about Portis’ return, The Washington Post
Great photo of the hit that put Clinton Portis out of the game after the link.

Atlanta Falcons end two-game losing streak with 31-17 win over Washington, Examiner.com
Ending the losing streak was crucial at this point of the season. With two road games ahead, the Falcons are in position to make a run.

Falcons’ Archer to speak at TD Club,  Macon Telegraph
Mark your calendars for color analyst and former Falcons quarterback Dave Archer.

Redskins go down fighting, The Washington Post
Some thoughts on the game from the Redskins paper of record.

J. Michael Moore Birdseed AF.com, AJC, Brian Finneran, Clinton Portis, Dave Archer, DeAngelo Hall, Examiner.com, Head Coach Mike Smith, Jonathan Babineaux, Macon Telegraph, Michael Turner, NFL.com, The Falcoholic, The Washington Post, Tye Hill, Washington Redskins

My colleague Matt Moore (@FalconsMMoore) has a story about the Superdome he tells before big games in New Orleans.

He says the only time he’s been concerned about the structural integrity of a stadium due to crowd noise was the Saints first home game in 2006 — the return to the building after Hurricane Katrina.

New Orleans blocked a Michael Koenen punt in the first quarter and returned it for a touchdown. At that point, according to Matt, the dome teetered with cacophony.

The Falcons didn’t win the game. In fact, the team hasn’t won in the Superdome since 2002.

Tonight’s game between the Falcons and Saints doesn’t carry the same emotional weight as the 2006 matchup but, when it comes to the NFC South standings, the contest is monumental.

I don’t need to get into the details, except to say a Saints win creates a three-game lead in the division with nine games to play. In order to make up the ground the Falcons would likely have to get a win over the Saints at the Georgia Dome next month, hope for additional New Orleans losses and (of course) win as many of their own games as possible.

I can’t tell you exactly what the Falcons did this week to prepare for such a big game but I will say, in the NFL, it pays to treat games in two ways: home and away. Home games you’re supposed to win. Road games are tough. It’s an easy mental hurdle to understand and allows for proper focus on technical aspects of each game.

The Falcons know this one won’t be easy.

They know the Superdome will be loud, maybe as loud as Matt remembers it.

The Falcons also know it pays to win games when you’re charged with adrenaline. If not, winning the division could come down to simple — and unfavorable — math.

Complete Falcons-Saints Coverage from AF.com
Stats, video, game week coverage and more straight from Flowery Branch.

Falcons-Saints Game Center, NFL.com
The eyes of the nation and, more importantly, the NFL world, will be on the Falcons this evening. Plenty of eyes were on the Birds last week in Dallas, too. Let’s all hope for different results. In case you’re wondering, the NFL Network crew picks the Saints.

Falcons WR Finneran talks up rivalry with Saints, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
You’ll find few players in the locker room with the tenure of Brian Finneran. Perfect player to talk about the Falcons-Saints rivalry.

A Look Ahead: The Return, The Falcoholic
A brief, good breakdown of the remaining games.

Falcons-Saints as big as a matchup can get, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Superdome hasn’t been one of the most consistent places when it comes to hostile territories. That’s mostly because the Saints have had just as many down as up years. But right now, New Orleans has one of the best home-field advantages in football. They certainly have a fan following.

Sedrick Ellis out vs. Falcons, ProFootballTalk.com
You’re probably paying a lot of attention to the Saints offense. Nothing wrong with that. But injuries on the defense, which is emerging as one of the best in the league, could be big.

Falcons dazzled by Saints array of weapons, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
There’s a fine line between “respect,” which is needed and “dazzle,” which is odd.

J. Michael Moore Birdseed, Gameday AF.com, AJC, Brian Finneran, Georgia Dome, Hurricane Katrina, Louisiana Superdome, Matt Moore, New Orleans Saints, NFC South, NFL.com, ProFootballTalk.com, Sedrick Ellis, The Falcoholic

Happy Halloween, Falcons Fans.

I’ll open with a horror story.

In recent history, the Saints in the Superdome have been the Lucy to the Falcons’ Charlie Brown. The football is there to be kicked — the game is there to win — but it’s pulled away at the last minute.

The Falcons haven’t won in New Orleans since 2002 and, excluding a win over the Saints in San Antonio after Hurricane Katrina, have lost those five games by an average margin of less than 10 points.

Now for the treat.

Difficulties on the road are part of this great NFL rivalry, but overall the Falcons have won more road games against the Saints than they’ve lost. In fact, Atlanta holds a 44-35 advantage in the series that, at least this season, appears to be an early battle for the NFC South title.

A win on Monday Night Football would certainly be the sweetest candy but it’s going to take some creative trickery to get past the 6-0 Saints.

Keeping with the “Peanuts” theme, let’s draw some inspiration from Snoopy.

He’s the beagle we all love.

And he’s the beagle that’s always trying to be something he’s not.

But with a little imagination — and a red scarf — Snoopy could turn his doghouse into a Sopwith Camel. And with a little creativity — and focus — the Falcons can defeat the New Orleans Saints.

What mask will the Birds wear Monday night?

Showdown set with NFL’s top offense, AF.com
No one ever said this game was going to be easy. Click here for more coverage from AF.com as we get closer to kickoff.

“Who Dat Ded?,” The Canvas, By Superfan
I’m really starting to love the work coming from Superfan these days. Special thanks to the contest winner who provided the inspiration this week.

NFC rankings: Falcons drop, Vikings hold, Saints (duh), Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Good to see an actual separation between the Rams and Bucs at No. 15 and 16. But I did like putting them at a tie for last place.

Mughelli Practices, Snelling Doesn’t, The Beat Blog
Injuries are numerous, but I wouldn’t say they’re piling up. For more injury updates, visit the Piedmont Healthcare Injury Report.

Saints’ Brees outworks, outplays, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
As a fan of football, I’m happy for Drew Brees. It’s good to see success, especially on a second stop in a career. As a fan of the Falcons… Not so much.

Is it time for the Atlanta Falcons to hit the panic button?, Examiner.com
The cover is still closed and locked on said panic button, if there even is one in Flowery Branch.

Falcons’ Ryan trying to shake sophomore slump, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I’ve seen a lot of veteran quarterbacks put a couple of rough games together. What do you call it then when you can’t call it a “sophomore slump?”

Final Word: NFC South, ESPN.com
“I’m real interested to see how flexible Atlanta coach Mike Smith and offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey are. The Falcons are supposed to be a run-first team and that worked out just great last year.”

New Orleans Saints-Atlanta Falcons, what they’re saying, The Times-Picayune
A run down of Falcons-Saints stories from the New Orleans paper of record.

Sharper, opportunistic defence(sic) create worries for Atlanta Falcons, The Canadian Press
I’ll admit, when Darren Sharper signed with the Saints, I got a little worried. He’s one of the best safeties I’ve ever seen in person.

Saints/Falcons rivalry deserves more national respect, The Daily Comet
Was it the Daily Comet or Daily Planet in Superman? I can’t remember.

Stecker predicts ‘crazy’ scene for Falcons-Saints, The Associated Press
Interested to see how much playing time newly-signed (and former Saint) running back Aaron Stecker gets Monday night. Most of that depends on how banged up the Falcons backfield is.

Talking Saints With Canal Street Chronicles, The Falcoholic
When these two bloggers get together, one post just isn’t enough: Part One | Part Two

J. Michael Moore Birdseed Aaron Stecker, AF.com, AJC, Charlie Brown, Darren Sharper, Drew Brees, ESPN.com, Examiner.com, Friday Pep Talk, Halloween, Head Coach Mike Smith, Hurricane Katrina, injury, Jason Snelling, Matt Ryan, Mike Mularkey, New Orleans Saints, NFC South, Ovie Mughelli, Peanuts, Snoopy, Superfan, The Associated Press, The Beat Blog, The Canadian Press, The Daily Comet, The Falcoholic, The Times-Picayune, video

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

If for some reason you’re looking for a way to get pumped of for Sunday night’s game between the Falcons and Bears, look no further than AF.com’s Vantage Point highlight from last year’s game between the teams.

A lot has been made this week of the Falcons, last-second, 22-20 win over Chicago in 2008. It’s not misplaced enthusiasm, but it does tend to get a little out of control.

Matt Ryan’s throw to Michael Jenkins to set up Jason Elam’s game-winner was an instant classic. It will be replayed for the rest of Ryan’s career and set the tone for what was to become a playoff season for the Falcons.

It made Ryan more of a household name and it got people talking about the Falcons.

Immediately.

Of course the 2009 version of the Bears and Falcons are different than a season ago. Chicago has a new quarterback (Jay Cutler) and the Falcons have a new, Pro Bowl tight end (Tony Gonzalez).

But one thing hasn’t changed — The Falcons team attitude.

Falcons-Bears Preview, NFL.com
Is this a Cutler-Ryan matchup? Maybe it is, but I’m going to keep an eye on Matt Forte and Michael Turner.

‘Village Idiots’ key to Falcons offensive success, AF.com
Fantastic work from John Manasso and an interesting look at what really makes the Falcons offensive line tick. Some of the info may surprise you.

Tech, Falcons issue ticket warning, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
As the season progresses Tech and Falcons tickets could become very hot items.

Ovie Mughelli To Miss Chicago Bears Game?, The Falcoholic
Head Coach Mike Smith made it clear Wednesday if — and that’s a big if — Mughelli misses the Bears game the Falcons won’t be forced to change much on offense.

You make the call: Bears at Falcons, Chicago Sun-Times
The Bears defense may have some questions. You can’t lose a player like Brian Urlacher without some problems. But Sunday Night Football can be a great equalizer.

Jamaal Anderson’s successful move tackle, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Sometimes it takes a new perspective to find success.

Bears, Falcons both feature strong special teams, Daily Herald
Devin Hester and Johnny Knox highlight the Bears threats on special teams while the Falcons look to continue success in kick coverage. Don’t leave your seat on a punt or kickoff.

Chicago Bears likely to go with just 2 running backs, Chicago Tribune
Interesting call. Forte certainly can get the job done, but if one player gets banged up it drastically changes the approach on offense.

Falcons don’t believe Turner has a fumbling issue, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Too often in football there’s a lack of focus on the big picture. Sure, the timing of the fumbles isn’t great but compare it to the rest of Turner’s career. Still solid.

Clemson judge was an original Atlanta Falcon, UpstateToday.com
Important to keep up with former Falcons, especially from the early years.

Falcons To Raise Money For United Way, CBSAtlanta.com
You can also make donations online via the United Way’s website.

Atlanta and Chicago fans are having the most Super Bowl dreams, Yahoo Sports
Check back with me after the halfway point. Buzz is just that… Buzz.

J. Michael Moore Birdseed AF.com, AJC, CBSAtlanta.com, Chicago Bears, Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Tribune, Daily Herald, Devin Hester, Friday Pep Talk, Georgia Tech, Head Coach Mike Smith, highlights, Jamaal Anderson, Jason Elam, Jay Cutler, John Manasso, Johnny Knox, Matt Forte, Matt Ryan, Michael Turner, NFL.com, Ovie Mughelli, Sunday Night Football, The Falcoholic, The United Way, tickets, Tony Gonzalez, UpstateToday.com, video, Yahoo Sports

Seven years ago this evening my life changed forever. It’s all thanks to a wonderful woman and “Texas Chainsaw Massacre.”

Mrs. J. Mike and I had our first date 2,555 days ago. The night included watching an old VHS copy of one of the best — or worst — horror movies ever made (who says I’m not a hopeless romantic)?

Today I find myself remembering all the stuff that’s happened to my family since my wife and I started dating.

• We’ve graduated from college
• Got married (duh)
• Have — alone and/or together — lived in six different states

And those are just the highlights. Topic headers for the countless stories adding to our lives. There have been challenges, joys, defeats and triumphs but we’ve done it all together.

I like to say my wife and I make a great team (she says she’s the coach). Well, with seven years in the same system, we’re getting more experienced and poised for success.

But, in relationships, it takes a lifetime.

And that’s fine by me.

Ask Brian Williams a Question, AF.com
In just a few months Brian Williams has gone from starting in Jacksonville, released for salary cap reasons, to starting in Atlanta. Ask a question about his journey and he’ll answer the best on Friday.

Falcons will try to dodge the bye-week bullet, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“According to Elias Sports Bureau, teams coming off bye weeks in the past three seasons won nearly 60 percent of the time (57-38-1, .599).” Since 2000, that number drops to closer to 50 percent.

Mughelli misses practice in prep for Bears, AF.com
Also in the notebook: thoughts on the running game and some fan information for this weekend’s game.

Cutler has conquered the Georgia Dome vs. Smitty, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I can safely say this marks the first time a photo of Fergie and Rush Limbaugh appear in the same blog. Nice work, D-Led.

Matt Ryan’s Best Throw?, The Beat Blog
I like to think the best throw of Matt Ryan’s career is somewhere in the future. He also had that nice strike in Philly that threaded a defenders hands.

Could Jamaal Anderson Start At Defensive Tackle?, The Falcoholic
A valid question (much better than those who want to see him at tight end).

Falcons vs. Bears Preview, CBSSports.com
Both teams are 3-1, but the stats seem to indicate a less-than-balanced matchup.

Yet Another Look Ahead, The Falcoholic
Taking a glimpse at future opponents in this schedule can be hazardous for your health. Sometimes I get a little sick to my stomach. Other times I get light-headed with excitement.

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Statistically, it was no where near the most successful game of his career. But having Jerious Norwood back on the field after a concussion certainly improved the Falcons ability to move the football and score.

The running back, who suffered a pair of concussions over a 22-day period, rushed for 44 yards on 12 carries in a win over the 49ers Sunday. He capped his performance — and his head — with a new helmet designed to better protect his brain from heavy impacts.

Concussions are no laughing matter.

Florida’s Tim Tebow suffered one against Kentucky but returned to play against LSU Saturday night. And, in Sunday’s game in San Francisco, 49ers safety Michael Lewis reportedly suffered his third head injury of the year.

Protection technology has improved drastically, especially over the last 10 years, leaving me to wonder how bad some of the pioneers of the game suffered.

It should also remind us at how much players put on the line any given Sunday.

Complete Falcons-49ers Game Coverage, AF.com
It may take a few days to digest all the big numbers from this game — not unlike a pair of trips to the West Coast in 2008 — but we don’t have time to dwell on much, good or bad.

Falcons deliver a beatdown to 49ers, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Look for all the adjectives you want. “Beatdown” is the best.

In 49ers blowout loss, coach’s blowup bears watching, The Mercury News
An interesting story line I hear got some play on television. But, as is the case in a road game, the Falcons flew out and moved on.

49ers flop in 45-10 loss to Falcons, Associated Press
Sunday’s game marked the worst home loss for the 49ers in 42 years. Yikes.

5 things we learned from the San Fran Beatdown, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
D-Led finding more ways to incorporate song lyrics into his blog. That’s a talent I haven’t mastered yet. Maybe I need to listen to the radio more.

Falcons defensive front answers Abraham challenge, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
It all starts with the defensive line. The Falcons front four — and the various players who rotate in and out along the line of scrimmage — got the message to perform loud and clear.

Atlanta Falcons blast 49ers, win 45-10 in dominating fashion, Examiner.com
Time of possession, big plays, turnovers on defense… Sunday’s game had it all.

Falcons And 49ers Recap: The Win Is The Thing, The Falcoholic
Some additional highlights and a lone lowlight from Sunday’s game.

Talk with coach gets White back to old form. ESPN.com
It’s a funny thing, pressure. Some need it to perform, others crack under its weight. Regardless, it’s a force of nature that must be mastered in order to achieve success. (For more from Pat Yasinskas, who was at Candlestick Park Sunday, visit his NFC South blog).

J. Michael Moore Birdseed AF.com, AJC, Associated Press, Candlestick Park, concussions, D. Orlando Ledbetter, ESPN.com, Examiner.com, injury, Jerious Norwood, Michael Lewis, Pat Yasinskas, Roddy White, San Francisco 49ers, The Falcoholic, The Mercury-News, Tim Tebow