Starting Fresh

The Atlanta Falcons started their 2006 – 2007 season yesterday with an impressive 20 - 6 win over the Carolina Panthers. Prior to the game, a majority of the national “NFL Insiders” had already granted the Panthers the victory, citing last seasons two blowout victories by a combined 58 points. However, they failed to realize that prior to last seasons loses; Atlanta has owned Carolina, winning a majority of the games against them.

I’ve watched lots of Falcons games over the last two years and this was perhaps one of the most balanced games the birds have played in some time. The pass offense finally matched the run offense and the defense was aggressive and dominant. Offense always starts with the quarterback and the offensive line gave Michael Vick lots of time; therefore, he looked comfortable in the pocket (and outside) and did a great job of balancing when to run and when to pass. Vick went 10 of 22 for 140 yards and 2 touchdowns and rushed for 48 yards. Running back Warrick Dunn continued to show that you can get better with age, rushing for 132 yards off 29 carries and rookie Jerious Norwood once again showed why he outlasted T.J. Duckett by rushed for 66 yards off 10 carriers. Atlanta finished with 252 yards rushing.

The Dirty Bird receivers highlighted their new found chemistry with Vick by making some good catches. Michael Jenkins caught 3 passes for 77 yards and 1 touchdown; showing a glimpse of his potential by going 34 yards for a touchdown. Alge Crumpler continued to be consistent with 27 yards and 1 touchdown, while Ashley Lelie, Justin Griffin, and Roddy “Rowdy” White also caught passes. I would like to see more out of White, I think he dropped some catchable balls.

The highlight of the game was the Dirty Bird defense lead by free agent signee John Abraham, who had 2 sacks and 2 forced fumbles. Last season’s bane – the run defense looked much improved with the addition of Grady Jackson and Lawyer Malloy. The Birds only allowed the Panthers 65 yards rushing and Jason Webster protected against the pass by recording an interception. Lastly, Michael Koenan handled his triple duty kicker, punter, and field goal duties, kicking 2 field goals through the uprights.

All in all, this was a great game for the Falcons. The only bad thing – both defensive ends Patrick Kerney and John Abraham left the game with injuries. Kerney suffered an elbow injury and John Abraham suffered a groin injury.

Next Week: Tampa Bay Bucs