Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
WEEK 16 NFL POWER RANKINGS
NFL Power Rankings Week 16
Oldies but Goodies! 49ers wide receiver Randy Moss catches
a touchdown pass from Colin Kaepernick, 49ers won 41-34 (REUTERS/Brian
Snyder)
But Denver Broncos earned the respect they deserve as Peyton Manning ruthlessly teared down the Baltimore Ravens' defense in a dominant win at M&T Bank Stadium. With New England Patriots suffering a 41-34 loss to the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday night, Denver now has a clear path to a first-round bye an AFC No.1 or 2 playoff seed.
Green Bay Packers looked very much like the 2010 championship team during a 21-13 victory over Chicago, their eighth win in the past nine games and clinching the NFC North. Texans clinch AFC South with 29-17 win over Andrew Luck Indianapolis Colts.
Here's the NFL Power Rankings Week 16:
1. Denver Broncos 11-3 The AFC West champions snagged their 9th consecutive win at the expense of routing the Ravens. The Broncos, who can still capture the top seed in the conference, finish with home games against Cleveland and Kansas City. Playoff picture week 16: AFC No.1 seed and a bye week rest. Ranking 2 to 1
2. Atlanta Falcons 12-2 Falcons turned in their most well-rounded performance of the season with the playoffs approaching with 34-0 rout over the defending Super Bowl champ Giants. Playoff picture week 16: NFC No.1 seed with a bye week rest.
3. Houston Texans 12-2 The Texans clinched the division for the second straight year with a 29-17 victory over Indianapolis. Texans playoff picture would be AFC No.1 and 2 seed.
4. San Francisco 49ers 10-3-1 The red and gold clinch playoff spot by trouncing the New England Patriots at their home turf! The 49ers own at least a wild-card spot and play at Seattle next week with a chance to win the NFC West. A loss would bring the division race down to the final weekend. Playoff picture week 16: NFC playoff second seed which give them a bye week rest.
5. Green Bay Packers 10-4 Green Bay clinched its second straight NFC North title with a 21-13 victory over the archrival Chicago Bears on Sunday. Playoff picture week 16: NFC playoff second seed and bye week rest Ranking 6 to 5
6. New England Patriots 10-4 AFC East champion New England have seen their seven in a row game ended by 49ers. Tom Brady being MVP front-runner was stained after failing a 28-point comeback. Playoff picture week 16: AFC playoff third or fourth seed.
7. Seattle Seahawks 9-5 Seahawks playoff push continues running to win the NFC West but 49ers wins Sunday over Patriots. They return home on Week 16 to host division-leading San Francisco 49ers in what has become a key showdown. Seahawks playoff picture could be at least NFC Wild card or No.3 seed. Ranking 10 to 7
8. Washington Redskins 8-6 Without Robert Griffin III who is hurt, backup rookie QB Kirk Cousins kept Washington's winning streak and playoff hopes intact. Redskins target NFC East title by winning their last two games at Philadelphia and hosting Dallas. Ranking 12 to 8
9. Indianapolis Colts 9-5 The Colts had won three straight games and needed a win to clinch a playoff berth but Andrew Luck couldn't do much against the inspired Houston defense. AFC wildcard is an option with Week 16 and 17 at Kansas City then Houston. But Colts exceeded already all expectation year after going 2-14 in 2011.
10. New York Giants 8-6 Giants loss to Falcons dropped them into a first-place tie with Washington and Dallas in the NFC East. Their last two games against Baltimore and Philadelphia is a must win. Playoff picture week 16: NFC East title and Wildcard. Ranking 7 to 10
11. Baltimore Ravens 9-5 Ravens lost to the Broncos, their third straight. Despite the defeat, the Ravens qualified for the playoffs when Pittsburgh lost to Dallas on Sunday night. That gave the Ravens a wild-card berth, but they hope to enter the postseason as division champions with tough NY Giants and Bengals on Week 16 and 17 respectively. Playoff picture on week 16 could be AFC No.3 or 4 seed. Ranking 8 to 11
12. Dallas Cowboys 8-6 Cowboys win push them into a three-way tie for first place in the crazy interesting NFC East with the Giants and Redskins with two games left in the season in a must win versus New Orleans and Washington. Playoff picture week 16: NFC East title that could give them third seed or wild card. Ranking 13 to 12
13. Cinncinati Bengals 8-6 These Bengals makes AFC North interesting, with Steelers and Ravens loss they are on wild card and fighting for division title if they can beat this two division rivals in their last two games.
14. Minnesota Vikings 8-6 Vikings bionic running back Adrian Peterson has season-best 212 yards might win the comeback player of the year! Beating Peyton Manning? Playoff picture: Vikings still in the hunt for NFC Wildcard if Seattle lost on Week 16 versus 49ers. Ranking 18 to 14
15. Chicago Bears 8-6 Bears free fall continues with third straight loss. Chicago lost some ground in the race for the last wild-card spot in NFC. Ranking 11 to 15
16. Pittsburgh Steelers 7-7 The Steelers lost for the fourth time in five games and trail AFC North rival Cincinnati by a game for the second wild card spot on playoff picture. Steelers host the Bengals in a must win next week then Cleveland after. Ranking 15 to 16
17. New York Jets 6-7 The Jets plays the Titans on Monday Night Football, If Tim Tebow starts and win that could make Rex Ryan more bad.
18. St. Louis Rams 6-7-1 Rams three wins in a row was snapped by the Vikings so as seriously damaging their postseason hopes. Rams playoff picture is in shambles.
19. New Orleans Saints 6-8 Saints recorded their first shutout in 17 years in a 41-0 rout of Tampa Bay on Sunday, and spoiling the Buccaneers playoff hopes. Ranking 22 to 19
20. Miami Dolphins 6-8 Dolphins ranked near the bottom of the league in points and yards, had a season-high 26 first downs and won for only the second time in the past seven games.
21. Cleveland Browns 5-9 Cleveland's three-game winning streak was snapped by Redskins together with their playoff hope as well. Browns is on the right track something they can build on for next season.
22. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 6-8 Their loss to the Eagles proved to be painful. Saints 41-0 rout of Tampa Bay extend the Buccaneers' losing streak to four games. The Bucs are out of playoff picture. Ranking 18 to 22
23. Arizona Cardinals 5-9 Arizona's first victory in 2 1/2 months came a week after laying an egg on 58-0 embarassing loss in Seattle.
24. Tennessee Titans 4-9 Titans could have a rough finish to 2012 facing NY Jets tonight Monday Night Football
25. Buffalo Bills 5-9 Buffalo were mathematically eliminated from playoff picture for a 13th season - the NFL's longest active drought.
26. San Diego Chargers 5-9 Clinched not the playoff but their first losing season since 2003, when they were an NFL-worst 4-12. Coach Norv Turner is expected to be fired at season's end, most likely along with general manager A.J. Smith. Ranking 23 to 26
27. Carolina Panthers 5-9 Carolina won consecutive games for the first time but too bad it happens in December.
28. Detroit Lions 4-10 For the Lions that made the playoffs a year ago and missing this year with Matthew Strafford, Megatron Calvin Johnson and the dirtiest, cheapest player in the NFL DT Ndamukong Suh are just maddening. Ranking 25 to 28
29. Oakland Raiders 4-10 Raiders finally ended up on the winning end. If only they could play the Kansas City Chiefs more often. Ranking 30 to 29
30. Philadelphia Eagles 4-10 Reid led the Eagles to nine playoff appearances, six division titles and five NFC championship games in his first 13 years. But the Eagles will miss the playoffs for the second straight year and owner Jeffrey Lurie already said 8-8 would be ''unacceptable.'' Bye Andy. Ranking 27 to 30
31. Jacksonville Jaguars 2-12 QB Chad Henne is not Superhero after all. The Jaguars tied the franchise record for losses, set in their inaugural 1995 season.
32. Kansas City Chiefs 2-12 Chief's only win since September came the day after linebacker Javon Belcher killed his girlfriend before committing suicide at the team's practice facility. Now they are running for the 2013 No. 1 overall NFL draft pick.
ME AND JULIO
Friday December 14, 2012 7:04 PM
FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) - Julio Jones isn't interested in discussing his accomplishments.
Bravado isn't his style.
"I've been like this my whole life,'' Jones said Friday. "This is the way I am.''
Jones' transformation into a professional receiver with the Atlanta Falcons started at Alabama, where Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban enforced a businesslike approach to practice and film study.
But Jones said he was soft-spoken long before he signed a scholarship at Alabama.
Growing up in the small town of Foley, Ala. - about 25 miles southeast of Mobile and 10 miles from the Gulf of Mexico - Jones learned at an early age that performance meant far more to him than words.
"You let your play do the talking out there on the field, man,'' Jones said. "I'm not going to say anything negative about the next man I'm going against, you know? I'm just going to go out there and give it my all for 60 minutes.''
When the Atlanta Falcons (11-2) host the New York Giants (8-5) on Sunday, Jones could move into a bigger role and become quarterback Matt Ryan's top target.
Roddy White, the team's leading receiver, has a sore right knee and did not practice this week.
If Jones becomes Ryan's primary option, the second-year wideout says he is prepared for the challenge. But don't expect Jones to pound his chest or do some fancy dance in the end zone.
"I just go out there and try to perform and be consistent for this organization,'' Jones said. "Especially being in the NFL, it's all about consistency and working hard. Everybody is athletic here in the NFL. It's all about continuing to try to get better.''
As the NFL's sixth overall draft pick last year, Jones was scrutinized as a golden child of sorts.
Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff sent Atlanta's No. 27 spot in the first round to Cleveland and gave the Browns a second- and fourth-round pick in 2011 and a first- and fourth-round spot this year to acquire the 6-foot-3, 220-pound Jones.
Despite missing three games last season with hamstring injuries, Jones averaged 17.8 yards and scored eight touchdowns on 54 catches.
Through as many games this year - 13 - Jones already has 63 catches for a 15.8 average and seven touchdowns - but the statistics mean very little to him in the context of his team's success.
"It's never affected me,'' Jones said. "I just go out there and play. I told you before. I can't go out there and be Superman, you know? They traded up to get me and everything because they see the potential.''
The 23-year-old Jones even decided during the offseason to give himself a new look, too, cutting off his beloved dreadlocks and donating the effort to "Locks of Love,'' a national cancer charity.
The haircut, he soon believed, better fit his straight-man persona. Plus, Jones said he wanted no part of trying to match the outspoken White, a four-time Pro Bowl selection who rarely lets his swagger down in conversation.
"What I appreciate about Julio is that he listens and tries to get better every day,'' Falcons offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter said. "He listens to what (receivers coach) Terry (Robiskie) tells him, and I think Julio is influenced by Roddy and Matt, two really good role models that are teammates, and what those guys say to him. I think Julio has become a much more consistent player throughout this year.
When he's healthy, he's a guy that you think can break the game open at any time.''
Jones appreciates, though, how the fun-loving White showed him how to succeed on the field without letting the job become tedious.
It has helped, too, having 16th-year tight end Tony Gonzalez, the NFL's No. 2 career-leaving receiver, as a teammate.
"Maybe on a lot of teams, if you're the No. 1 guy, you could be bored with it, you know?'' Jones said.
"But here you've got all these guys to keep you up, and they tell you to keep pushing. Especially coming from a Hall of Fame tight end like Tony - he's been in the game so long and he keeps doing it.''
Jones still marvels at how hard the 36-year-old Gonzalez works in practice.
"It shows you the way not to be bored out there and keep getting better,'' he said. "Catch balls, catch balls. Muscle memory.''
Julio Jones prefers low profile for Falcons |
Bravado isn't his style.
"I've been like this my whole life,'' Jones said Friday. "This is the way I am.''
Jones' transformation into a professional receiver with the Atlanta Falcons started at Alabama, where Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban enforced a businesslike approach to practice and film study.
But Jones said he was soft-spoken long before he signed a scholarship at Alabama.
Growing up in the small town of Foley, Ala. - about 25 miles southeast of Mobile and 10 miles from the Gulf of Mexico - Jones learned at an early age that performance meant far more to him than words.
"You let your play do the talking out there on the field, man,'' Jones said. "I'm not going to say anything negative about the next man I'm going against, you know? I'm just going to go out there and give it my all for 60 minutes.''
When the Atlanta Falcons (11-2) host the New York Giants (8-5) on Sunday, Jones could move into a bigger role and become quarterback Matt Ryan's top target.
Roddy White, the team's leading receiver, has a sore right knee and did not practice this week.
If Jones becomes Ryan's primary option, the second-year wideout says he is prepared for the challenge. But don't expect Jones to pound his chest or do some fancy dance in the end zone.
"I just go out there and try to perform and be consistent for this organization,'' Jones said. "Especially being in the NFL, it's all about consistency and working hard. Everybody is athletic here in the NFL. It's all about continuing to try to get better.''
As the NFL's sixth overall draft pick last year, Jones was scrutinized as a golden child of sorts.
Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff sent Atlanta's No. 27 spot in the first round to Cleveland and gave the Browns a second- and fourth-round pick in 2011 and a first- and fourth-round spot this year to acquire the 6-foot-3, 220-pound Jones.
Despite missing three games last season with hamstring injuries, Jones averaged 17.8 yards and scored eight touchdowns on 54 catches.
Through as many games this year - 13 - Jones already has 63 catches for a 15.8 average and seven touchdowns - but the statistics mean very little to him in the context of his team's success.
"It's never affected me,'' Jones said. "I just go out there and play. I told you before. I can't go out there and be Superman, you know? They traded up to get me and everything because they see the potential.''
The 23-year-old Jones even decided during the offseason to give himself a new look, too, cutting off his beloved dreadlocks and donating the effort to "Locks of Love,'' a national cancer charity.
The haircut, he soon believed, better fit his straight-man persona. Plus, Jones said he wanted no part of trying to match the outspoken White, a four-time Pro Bowl selection who rarely lets his swagger down in conversation.
"What I appreciate about Julio is that he listens and tries to get better every day,'' Falcons offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter said. "He listens to what (receivers coach) Terry (Robiskie) tells him, and I think Julio is influenced by Roddy and Matt, two really good role models that are teammates, and what those guys say to him. I think Julio has become a much more consistent player throughout this year.
When he's healthy, he's a guy that you think can break the game open at any time.''
Jones appreciates, though, how the fun-loving White showed him how to succeed on the field without letting the job become tedious.
It has helped, too, having 16th-year tight end Tony Gonzalez, the NFL's No. 2 career-leaving receiver, as a teammate.
"Maybe on a lot of teams, if you're the No. 1 guy, you could be bored with it, you know?'' Jones said.
"But here you've got all these guys to keep you up, and they tell you to keep pushing. Especially coming from a Hall of Fame tight end like Tony - he's been in the game so long and he keeps doing it.''
Jones still marvels at how hard the 36-year-old Gonzalez works in practice.
"It shows you the way not to be bored out there and keep getting better,'' he said. "Catch balls, catch balls. Muscle memory.''
FALCONS TO CRITICS: SHHHH!
Giants vs. Falcons: Atlanta Finally Shows the NFL How Good It Can Be
By Falcons Country Guest Blogger Knox Bardeen
December 16, 2012
Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
“Zero,” said Weatherspoon, without the hint of a smile.
Weatherspoon wasn’t saying there were no feelings of one-upmanship. He was inferring the exact opposite and pointing to Sunday’s scoreboard.
“It wasn’t about the win,” said the team’s weakside linebacker once the game was safe in the fourth quarter. “It was about keeping that zero up there.”
Keeping that zero on the scoreboard wasn’t the only moral victory of Sunday’s win. The Falcons showed the rest of the league just how good they could play.
Quarterback Matt Ryan was 23-for-28 with 270 yards and three touchdowns. He also broke his own franchise record for passing yards in a season and is now at 4,202.
The running back corps—Michael Turner, Jason Snelling and Jacquizz Rodgers—combined for 126 yards on the ground and helped the offense open up passing lanes because of its effectiveness running the football.
But the defense was the big story.
Giants quarterback Eli Manning was held to just 161 yards and picked off twice. His quarterback rating was 38.9. His first pass of the game was bobbled, then taken out of the air by cornerback Asante Samuel.
“This team thrives off of momentum,” said Samuel. “I just used my God-given ability to make plays for my team and put the offense in the best position to score. This was our best game we’ve put together so far.”
Atlanta’s defense held the Giants to just a 40 percent success rate on third downs and stopped New York three times on short-yardage fourth-down plays.
Weatherspoon said after the game that he was surprised Giants head coach Tom Coughlin continued to attempt to go for it on 4th-and-short. He said he would have taken the points in those situations because every time the Falcons stopped them on fourth down it helped build momentum.
“It’s like they were saying ‘We’re better than you,’” said Weatherspoon.
On Sunday the Giants were not even close to being better than the Falcons.
In fact, this is as close to playing like a 12-2 team as the Falcons have played all year. This 34-point shellacking of the Giants should put the rest of the NFL on notice.
If the Falcons play like this in the playoffs, no one will be able beat them.
Matt Ryan's Toughness?!
Recently, after the Atlanta Falcons' losing streak reached one game, many fair weather bird fans have been critical of the team and, in particular, Matt Ryan. Fanatics have claimed everything from an inability to read defenses to "happy feet" to, my personal favorite, a lack of toughness.
Anyone that questions Matt Ryan's toughness should surrender their NFL fan card immediately.
The guy has played through a broken foot, illness, and most recently, a vacant offensive line.
But, he always gets back up.
The play above is a testament to his toughness. After this vicious spear, Ryan missed only one play - while the equipment manager put his helmet back together. He went on to lead a comeback W against Clemson in Death Valley.
Say what you will about Matt Ryan, but please don't question his toughness.
You will only come away looking foolish (and without your NFL Fan card).
I can neither confirm nor deny whether this was one of the Falcons' fans questioning Matty Ice's toughness:
Atlanta Falcons: Run defense goes back to the drawing board
by Falcons Country Guest BloggerFLOWERY BRANCH — The Falcons defense has struggled against Carolina’s zone read option offense this season.
The Panthers rushed for a season-high 199 yards against the Falcons on Sept. 30 and nearly duplicated the effort with 195 yards in their 30-20 upset victory on Sunday.
The Falcons could face zone read option quarterbacks in the playoffs if they play Washington or San Francisco. But defensive end John Abraham said the Falcons don’t have a problem with the attack that is popular in the college game.
Pro defenses are designed to stop drop-back quarterbacks and rarely account for a running quarterback. In their first meeting, Carolina quarterback Cam Newton rushed for 87 yards. On Sunday, he rushed for 116 yards, including a 72-yard touchdown run.
“I don’t think the read option really bothered us,” said Abraham on Monday. “Cam just ran a good play into a blitz and things happen. Sometimes you do good things and they show up. It was just a good play by him and good play-calling by them. I don’t think that the read option is a big deal for us.”
Newton also passed for 287 yards, becoming the first player in NFL history with at least 250 passing yards, 100 rushing yards, a touchdown pass and a touchdown run in one game.
“Defensively, we didn’t do a whole lot of good things in the ballgame,” Falcons coach Mike Smith said. “Probably the most significant thing that we did was we were 3-for-3 when they got the ball in the red zone. When they got the ball down in the red zone, we played some good red-zone defense.”
Smith was perturbed that all of the Panthers touchdowns came on explosive plays of 25, 72 and 53 yards.
Third down slump: The Falcons were 2-of-8 (25 percent) on third down conversions against the Panthers.
“We need better production on first and second down so that third down is manageable,” running back Michael Turner said. “So guys won’t have the ears pinned back, going after Matt (Ryan) and teeing off on him. We just have to get the ball rolling and keep it moving.”
The Falcons were 1-of-11 in the previous game against the Saints, making them 3-of-19 (15.7 percent) over the last two games.
“We’ve been pretty good all year, so we’re not going to panic over two games,” Turner said.
Injury report: Cornerback Asante Samuel (shoulder) was active, but did not play against the Panthers. Smith said he was available for an emergency situation. He will return to practice on Wednesday.
Safety William Moore (hamstring) could be cleared after running for the trainers.
Defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux (rib) was injured in the game, but returned to the action.
Long hangover: The Falcons are still searching for a reason for the poor start against the Panthers. They hadn’t played since a Thursday game on Nov. 29 against the Saints, making for a nine-day layoff.
“We were very flat when we came out, especially there in the first half,” Smith said. “We couldn’t convert our third downs, and we couldn’t get off the field defensively on third down. Through their first two drives, they had run 27 plays and we had only run five or six.”
The Panthers converted on 9-of-15 (60 percent) of their third downs.
“You kind of get behind the 8-ball when you can’t get off the field on third down,” Smith said. “We’ve got to be much better on both sides of the ball on third down.”
Etc.: The Falcons had won five straight over the Panthers … Wide receiver Roddy White’s 4-yard touchdown pass was the 50th of his career. … Ryan’s 342 passing yards marked the seventh time that he has thrown for more than 300 yards this season, breaking his own franchise record of six games set last year. … Julio Jones needs just three yards to post his first 1,000-yard season. Jones and White (1,140) would become the first Falcons teammates to post 1,000 yards receiving in the same season since 1998 when Tony Martin (1,181) and Terance Mathis (1,136) did it. … Defensive tackle Vance Walker recorded his third sack of the season. He’s tied for third on the team this season behind Abraham (10 sacks) and Babineaux (3 1/2).
SAME OLD FALCONS?
Are they the same old Atlanta Falcons?
December, 9, 2012
By Falcons Country Guest Blogger
Pat Yasinskas
 |
| AP Photo/Bob Leverone Mike Smith's Falcons played perhaps their worst game of the season against the Panthers. |
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Atlanta Falcons were in playoff form Sunday.
Unfortunately for them, we’re talking about the kind of postseason form they’ve shown throughout Mike Smith’s tenure as coach. The team with the best record in the NFC came out flat and got stomped 30-20 by a Carolina team that hadn’t won much of anything, including a coin toss this season.
The Panthers had lost the coin toss in their first 12 games and once in overtime (against Tampa Bay). But the Falcons couldn’t even get the coin toss right. They called tails, the coin came up heads and the game quickly was over.
Even the Panthers, who’ve found all sorts of ways to squander leads, built up enough of an early cushion that the Falcons weren’t going to bounce back from a horrible start. Atlanta held the ball for only six minutes and 12 seconds, amassed just 35 yards of total offense and was down 16-0 at halftime.
“Ridiculous … maybe?" veteran tight end Tony Gonzalez said when asked to describe the first half in one word.
I won’t even try to top Gonzalez on that one because he nailed it. Just when I thought the Falcons had turned the corner and become a really good team, they showed they’re not.
They fell to 11-2 and had a five-game winning streak against the Panthers snapped. More important, they showed all sorts of flaws that could come back to haunt them in the postseason.
“It better be a bump in the road, if we’re the team we think we are," Gonzalez said. "I can hear them right now. They’re getting off the bandwagon. I can hear them jumping off. But that’s how it goes. And looking at our history, a lot of people are going to say, 'Well, see, I told you' and whatever."
Yep, you’ll see a lot of “same-old Falcons" talk in the aftermath of this one. In the first half, the Atlanta offense was even more stagnant than it was in last season’s playoff loss against the New York Giants (the same team Atlanta hosts next Sunday). The Falcons ran only 13 offensive plays in the first two quarters.
“We did not play anywhere near our potential, to our standards," Smith said.
No, what the Falcons put on the field early on wasn’t even close to their standards or the standards of any team that hopes to do anything positive in the postseason.
“Other teams are going to look at the tape from today and try to do some of the same things," Atlanta center Todd McClure said.
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Rainier EhrhardtCam Newton shredded the Falcons' defense for 287 passing yards and 116 yards on the ground.
AP Photo/Rainier EhrhardtCam Newton shredded the Falcons' defense for 287 passing yards and 116 yards on the ground.
What
they’ll see on film is a team that couldn’t convert on third downs
offensively and a defense that couldn’t get the Panthers off the field
on third downs. They’ll see a passing offense that couldn’t get started
until the second half, a running game that was nonexistent and a defense
that gave up 475 yards of total offense.
Even as the offense got going in the second half, the defense still was sputtering. Carolina quarterback Cam Newton scored on a 72-yard run to give the Panthers a 23-0 lead with 11:01 remaining in the third quarter. Matt Ryan followed that with two touchdown passes, enough to make Carolina fans worry about another collapse.
But the doubt went away for good when Newton and DeAngelo Williams hooked up on a 53-yard touchdown pass with 4:11 left in the game to take a 30-13 lead.
“They were much better than us today," Smith said.
That mantra (some variation of “the better team won") seemed to be reiterated by every Atlanta player I listened to in the postgame locker room. At first blush, it sounded like the Falcons were agreeing with the comments made by Carolina defensive end Greg Hardy -- that the Panthers were the better team -- in the days leading into the game.
But I don’t think Smith’s intention in hammering that message home to his players was specifically designed to say the 4-9 Panthers are a better team for anything more than one day. I think Smith’s message was that, if the Falcons play like this in the postseason, they’re going to be in for another huge disappointment.
“If we play like we did in that first half, there’s no way," Gonzalez said. “It’s not going to work out the way we want it to throughout the rest of the season. We’ve got to learn from this game. We’ve got to go out and play Falcon football because we didn’t do that in that first half."
What is Falcon football? Up until Sunday, it was a team playing with enough resilience to overcome just about any obstacle. Up until Sunday, it was a team that usually found a way to win. Even in their other loss (at New Orleans) the Falcons came within a yard of victory.
Against Carolina, they didn’t even come close and this is not the time of year to be regressing.
“Smitty always talks about how you want to play your best football in December," McClure said. “Nobody remembers what you did in September and October. It’s how you play in December and January that people remember."
If the Falcons play like they did against the Panthers in the final three regular-season games and into the postseason, everything that happened in September and October will be forgotten.
“If anything, we’ve got to look at this and say, 'Wake-up call,'" Gonzalez said. “We’ve got to go out and start playing the type of football that we’re capable of playing."
Even as the offense got going in the second half, the defense still was sputtering. Carolina quarterback Cam Newton scored on a 72-yard run to give the Panthers a 23-0 lead with 11:01 remaining in the third quarter. Matt Ryan followed that with two touchdown passes, enough to make Carolina fans worry about another collapse.
But the doubt went away for good when Newton and DeAngelo Williams hooked up on a 53-yard touchdown pass with 4:11 left in the game to take a 30-13 lead.
“They were much better than us today," Smith said.
That mantra (some variation of “the better team won") seemed to be reiterated by every Atlanta player I listened to in the postgame locker room. At first blush, it sounded like the Falcons were agreeing with the comments made by Carolina defensive end Greg Hardy -- that the Panthers were the better team -- in the days leading into the game.
But I don’t think Smith’s intention in hammering that message home to his players was specifically designed to say the 4-9 Panthers are a better team for anything more than one day. I think Smith’s message was that, if the Falcons play like this in the postseason, they’re going to be in for another huge disappointment.
“If we play like we did in that first half, there’s no way," Gonzalez said. “It’s not going to work out the way we want it to throughout the rest of the season. We’ve got to learn from this game. We’ve got to go out and play Falcon football because we didn’t do that in that first half."
What is Falcon football? Up until Sunday, it was a team playing with enough resilience to overcome just about any obstacle. Up until Sunday, it was a team that usually found a way to win. Even in their other loss (at New Orleans) the Falcons came within a yard of victory.
Against Carolina, they didn’t even come close and this is not the time of year to be regressing.
“Smitty always talks about how you want to play your best football in December," McClure said. “Nobody remembers what you did in September and October. It’s how you play in December and January that people remember."
If the Falcons play like they did against the Panthers in the final three regular-season games and into the postseason, everything that happened in September and October will be forgotten.
“If anything, we’ve got to look at this and say, 'Wake-up call,'" Gonzalez said. “We’ve got to go out and start playing the type of football that we’re capable of playing."
12-7-1941 WE REMEMBER
Panthers Japanese Defensive Back Nakamura responds to Matt Ryan and Roddy White's Surprise Attack: ‘I didn’t make the play’
Sept. 30: Ahead in final minute, Panthers pin Falcons at their 1;
Atlanta completes 59-yard pass over Nakamura, wins with field goal
By Joseph Person
 |
| Atlanta's Roddy White makes a 59-yard catch over Haruki Nakamura late in the Carolina Panthers' loss Sept. 30, 2012, at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta. |
Panthers free safety Haruki Nakamura waited 10 weeks before watching the video of the first game against Atlanta.
There in the wide angle of the coaches’ tape, Nakamura watched himself back-pedal at the snap of the ball, then turn and run, too late, toward Falcons receiver Roddy White. Then he saw White go over him to catch a 59-yard pass that changed the game and, arguably, the Panthers’ season.
“Going back and watching that stuff – and I think even the coaches said – not all of it was my fault,” Nakamura said this week. “But at the same time, I was the person there to make the play.
“And I didn’t make the play.”
White’s catch moved the Falcons from their 1 to the Panthers’ 40, setting up Matt Bryant’s 40-yard field goal that gave Atlanta a 30-28 win in a wild, Week 4 matchup at the Georgia Dome.
In a subdued visitors locker room, Nakamura took the blame for the loss – the second in what would become a five-game losing streak for the Panthers.
Nakamura, who signed with the Panthers in the offseason after backing up Ed Reed for four years in Baltimore, was involved in seemingly every big play in the first meeting with Atlanta.
He intercepted a Ryan pass at the goal line in the first quarter and broke up a pass in the end zone.
But he also gave up two first-half touchdown catches to White, and missed a tackle on Michael Turner’s 60-yard touchdown catch.
Nakamura’s breakdowns in coverage against the Falcons prompted Panthers coaches to use a platoon at free safety, with Sherrod Martin coming in on obvious passing downs.
But with Martin going on injured reserve this week with torn knee ligaments and strong safety Charles Godfrey questionable with a back issue, Nakamura returns to a full-time role – just in time for the rematch with the Falcons.
Nakamura, who could play closer to the line of scrimmage if Godfrey is out, said he will not go out of his way to try to make a big play as redemption for his Week 4 miscues.
“I’m not going to go out there saying, ‘I’m going to change the game.’ That’s not my job,” he said. “My job is to make sure big plays aren’t given up, to make sure we give ourselves a chance to win. We’ll see what happens at the end of the game.”
Nakamura said the Atlanta game taught him a hard lesson about not letting receivers get behind him. He believes he’s played better of late.
He is tied with Captain Munnerlyn for the team lead with two interceptions, and his 49 tackles rank eighth among Panthers defenders.
“I know outside of that game I’ve played well,” Nakamura said. “It was one game. I think the immediate effect of it, obviously it’s hard on you. But then you look at the body of work. I’ve done well, I’ve played well.”
Panthers players and coaches respect Nakamura for being accountable after the loss to the Falcons, but said he was not solely to blame.
“I appreciate that he’s a stand-up guy and wants to take the blame,” coach Ron Rivera said. “But it’s a team game and there’s 52 other guys.”
“He didn’t shy away from the situation after it unfolded. And that speaks volumes about how he is as a man and the character that he possesses,” defensive coordinator Sean McDermott added. “I think he’s improved since that time.”
Cornerback Josh Norman, who had underneath coverage on Nakamura’s side on the long, last-minute pass to White, said the Panthers were expecting Ryan to throw a shorter, sideline route to try to pick up yards and stop the clock.
“That was one of those plays that you’ve got to tip your hat to them for calling it, executing it and Roddy going to get it. Because if he didn’t go get it, we wouldn’t be here talking about it or have a loss on your record,” Norman said. “It was just one of those plays that comes about once in a blue moon.”
Watching video of White’s catch wasn’t real enjoyable. But Nakamura said he has not dwelled on the play or the game.
“I’ve put it out of my mind. I’ve moved on,” he said. “More disappointed because I did some things I know I don’t usually do. That’s just the bottom line. I know what kind of player I am.”
There in the wide angle of the coaches’ tape, Nakamura watched himself back-pedal at the snap of the ball, then turn and run, too late, toward Falcons receiver Roddy White. Then he saw White go over him to catch a 59-yard pass that changed the game and, arguably, the Panthers’ season.
“Going back and watching that stuff – and I think even the coaches said – not all of it was my fault,” Nakamura said this week. “But at the same time, I was the person there to make the play.
“And I didn’t make the play.”
White’s catch moved the Falcons from their 1 to the Panthers’ 40, setting up Matt Bryant’s 40-yard field goal that gave Atlanta a 30-28 win in a wild, Week 4 matchup at the Georgia Dome.
In a subdued visitors locker room, Nakamura took the blame for the loss – the second in what would become a five-game losing streak for the Panthers.
Nakamura, who signed with the Panthers in the offseason after backing up Ed Reed for four years in Baltimore, was involved in seemingly every big play in the first meeting with Atlanta.
He intercepted a Ryan pass at the goal line in the first quarter and broke up a pass in the end zone.
But he also gave up two first-half touchdown catches to White, and missed a tackle on Michael Turner’s 60-yard touchdown catch.
Nakamura’s breakdowns in coverage against the Falcons prompted Panthers coaches to use a platoon at free safety, with Sherrod Martin coming in on obvious passing downs.
But with Martin going on injured reserve this week with torn knee ligaments and strong safety Charles Godfrey questionable with a back issue, Nakamura returns to a full-time role – just in time for the rematch with the Falcons.
Nakamura, who could play closer to the line of scrimmage if Godfrey is out, said he will not go out of his way to try to make a big play as redemption for his Week 4 miscues.
“I’m not going to go out there saying, ‘I’m going to change the game.’ That’s not my job,” he said. “My job is to make sure big plays aren’t given up, to make sure we give ourselves a chance to win. We’ll see what happens at the end of the game.”
Nakamura said the Atlanta game taught him a hard lesson about not letting receivers get behind him. He believes he’s played better of late.
He is tied with Captain Munnerlyn for the team lead with two interceptions, and his 49 tackles rank eighth among Panthers defenders.
“I know outside of that game I’ve played well,” Nakamura said. “It was one game. I think the immediate effect of it, obviously it’s hard on you. But then you look at the body of work. I’ve done well, I’ve played well.”
Panthers players and coaches respect Nakamura for being accountable after the loss to the Falcons, but said he was not solely to blame.
“I appreciate that he’s a stand-up guy and wants to take the blame,” coach Ron Rivera said. “But it’s a team game and there’s 52 other guys.”
“He didn’t shy away from the situation after it unfolded. And that speaks volumes about how he is as a man and the character that he possesses,” defensive coordinator Sean McDermott added. “I think he’s improved since that time.”
Cornerback Josh Norman, who had underneath coverage on Nakamura’s side on the long, last-minute pass to White, said the Panthers were expecting Ryan to throw a shorter, sideline route to try to pick up yards and stop the clock.
“That was one of those plays that you’ve got to tip your hat to them for calling it, executing it and Roddy going to get it. Because if he didn’t go get it, we wouldn’t be here talking about it or have a loss on your record,” Norman said. “It was just one of those plays that comes about once in a blue moon.”
Watching video of White’s catch wasn’t real enjoyable. But Nakamura said he has not dwelled on the play or the game.
“I’ve put it out of my mind. I’ve moved on,” he said. “More disappointed because I did some things I know I don’t usually do. That’s just the bottom line. I know what kind of player I am.”
Falcons - Panthers II Defensive Preview
Carolina Panthers vs. Atlanta Falcons: Defensive preview
By Falcons Country Guest Blogger James Dator
Dec 7, 2012
Dale Zanine-US PRESSWIRE
A broken defense tries to stop a team with too many weapons.
This afternoon's injury report will decide whether Sunday's game against the Atlanta Falcons
will have a semblance of competitiveness, or become a nightmare. As
many as three more starters could miss Sunday's game, further decimating
an already weak unit. Today we look at the defense, and their chances
against a talented Falcons' offense.An unfortunate likely firing in the wake of Carolina's general manager search will be defensive coordinator Sean McDermott. Unless the new GM decides to take a season to evaluate the current coaching staff, the probable outcome will be an entirely new staff -- leaving talented coordinators like McDermott in the cold. His two years in Carolina haven't been stellar, but unlike compatriot Rob Chudzinski, the lack of defensive talent on the Panthers' roster is shocking, but they've over-achieved given the hand dealt them. Football Outsiders rank Carolina's defense as 14th in the NFL in DVOA, even after allowing the Kansas City Chiefs to embarrass them. This is a testament to McDermott's conservative, but somewhat-effective defense allowing 24.3 points per game, improved from 26.8 in 2011.
What the Atlanta Falcons lack in advanced metrics, they make up in raw offensive ability. It's conceivable that they can finish the 2012 season with a 1,000 yard rusher (Michael Turner), and three 1,000 yard receivers in Roddy White, Julio Jones, and Tony Gonzalez. Behind all of it is the quiet development of Matt Ryan, whose statistics may not inspire epic poems, but whose development shows him getting over a hump. Early in his career Ryan used Gonzalez as a crutch, eschewing risky plays for safer underneath routes. This approach was effective, but it gave Atlanta's offense a distinct lack of big-play ability, something they now have, and a key difference in this team from prior iterations. Ryan spreads the ball around more, puts it into tighter windows, and shows more inherent trust in his wide receivers -- all things that play to Carolina's weaknesses.
X-Factor: Charles Johnson and Greg Hardy
The difference in the week four match-up between these teams was Carolina's defensive ends. Johnson and Hardy caused enough disruption to throw off Matt Ryan's cadence, and shake the entire Falcons' offense. Totaling 4.5 sacks, the duo put on a show, much to the joy of Carolina Panthers' fans.
During a mid-season stretch, the Panthers' bookends were the best pass rushing duo in the NFL -- however they've fallen back to earth in recent weeks. Combining for 16.5 sacks on the year, they're still playing well, but scratch the surface and their season looks a lot shakier; 9.5 sacks came in just two games (Atlanta and Chicago), while they only show 2.5 in the last four games, despite playing against bad offensive lines in Kansas City and Philadelphia.The jury is still out on whether they'll be the first pass-rushing duo in Carolina to total 10 sacks each since Julius Peppers and Mike Rucker in 2002, but without their interior defensive tackles, and a far wilier Atlanta offense, it's unlikely this will be the week they return to prominence.
Edge: Falcons
Atlanta run offense vs. Carolina run defense
Michael Turner may not be the back he once was, but there's little reason to believe Atlanta's running back wont have success against a defensive front featuring Sione Fua and Andre Neblett. When these teams last met, Turner has his most successful game of 2012, finishing with 171 all purpose yards, and a touchdown. That was with Dwan and Ron Edwards -- yep.Luke Kuechly is outstanding, but he can't do it alone. Flanked by Thomas Davis, the two standout linebackers have been one of the few bright spots on a Panthers defense that inspires more facepalms that fist pumps in late-game situations. Without a line up front to support them it's going to be a long day.
Edge: Falcons
-Atlanta pass offense vs. Carolina pass defense
Oh boy...If Charles Godfrey is out with an injury the Panthers will be starting Haruki Nakamura and D.J. Campbell at their safety positions. If Anderson is out there's suddenly a hole on one side of the field unable to account for Tony Gonzalez, and with Roddy White matched up on Captain Munnerlyn, with Julio Jones getting a shot at rookie Josh Norman, how exactly can the Panthers stop them?
Ockham's razor says they can't, and I'm with Ockham (not to be confused with Oldham).
Edge: Falcons
-PREDICTION: Atlanta Falcons 34 - Carolina Panthers 14
A special shout out to all of our Military veterans on this anniversary of the unprovoked sneak attack by the Japs which killed thousands of men women and children on this date in 1941.
GUNNING FOR MATTY ICE
Atlanta Falcons: Carolina Panthers Gunning for Matt Ryan
By Falcons Country Guest Blogger Christopher BehelerDecember 6, 2012
Steve Dykes/Getty Images
The Atlanta Falcons have been put on notice by Greg Hardy and the Carolina Panthers. The Panthers want more than a win. They are coming for revenge. They are coming for blood. Matt Ryan Is Panthers' Number One Target
Falcons'
QB Matt Ryan accidentally made himself a target in the closing seconds
of the Falcons' last-second win over the Panthers earlier this year.
After a patented last-minute comeback, Ryan was far more fiery than
usual. As time expired, Ryan shouted for the Panthers to get off his
field. The comment was caught on camera, including the expletive.
While much worse is said on the field, the Panthers were more than slightly offended. Panthers defensive end Greg Hardy was not shy about his intentions.
"They have a quarterback who is going to be on the ground because that's where he belongs."
As reported by ESPN, Hardy tossed around words like "payback" and "punishment." While he displayed contempt for the Falcons as a team, he seemed particularly focused on Ryan. Hardy made it clear when he said, "(Ryan) likes to hold the ball and that's something he should do when you're coming to play the Carolina Panthers because it's going to have repercussions. "
Hardy Not Alone
Hardy's fellow defensive end Charles Johnson was equally vocal about the Panthers' intent to punish Ryan and the Falcons. Johnson admitted the loss has nagged at him this year. Johnson hit Ryan early and often in the teams' first meeting. He is even more motivated now, saying, "Now he has to come into our house."
The Falcons and Panthers have physical games like most division rivals. The upcoming game was a dangerous spot for the Falcons to begin with. The Panthers' open admission to gunning for Ryan adds a new layer of peril for the Falcons' late season push.
How Will Falcons Respond
It is hard to predict how the Falcons will scheme for Panthers "payback." It is possible the offense could become conservative and run max protect for the majority of the game. The game is in no way a "must win" for the Falcons, and protecting their quarterback is paramount to any possible postseason success.
Do not look for that happen.
Mike Smith has always been vocal about Matt Ryan's toughness. Smith also hails from a defensive background and is not easily intimidated. Look for Smith to use the target on his quarterback's back to motivate his squad in an otherwise meaningless game.
The Panthers have made it clear they are looking for a fight. It remains to be seen if the Falcons will bring the fight to them.
While much worse is said on the field, the Panthers were more than slightly offended. Panthers defensive end Greg Hardy was not shy about his intentions.
"They have a quarterback who is going to be on the ground because that's where he belongs."
As reported by ESPN, Hardy tossed around words like "payback" and "punishment." While he displayed contempt for the Falcons as a team, he seemed particularly focused on Ryan. Hardy made it clear when he said, "(Ryan) likes to hold the ball and that's something he should do when you're coming to play the Carolina Panthers because it's going to have repercussions. "
Hardy's fellow defensive end Charles Johnson was equally vocal about the Panthers' intent to punish Ryan and the Falcons. Johnson admitted the loss has nagged at him this year. Johnson hit Ryan early and often in the teams' first meeting. He is even more motivated now, saying, "Now he has to come into our house."
The Falcons and Panthers have physical games like most division rivals. The upcoming game was a dangerous spot for the Falcons to begin with. The Panthers' open admission to gunning for Ryan adds a new layer of peril for the Falcons' late season push.
How Will Falcons Respond
It is hard to predict how the Falcons will scheme for Panthers "payback." It is possible the offense could become conservative and run max protect for the majority of the game. The game is in no way a "must win" for the Falcons, and protecting their quarterback is paramount to any possible postseason success.
Do not look for that happen.
Mike Smith has always been vocal about Matt Ryan's toughness. Smith also hails from a defensive background and is not easily intimidated. Look for Smith to use the target on his quarterback's back to motivate his squad in an otherwise meaningless game.
The Panthers have made it clear they are looking for a fight. It remains to be seen if the Falcons will bring the fight to them.
FALCONS - PANTHERS PREVIEW
Atlanta Falcons vs. Carolina Panthers: More Dangerous Than Trap Game
By Falcons Country Guest Blogger Christopher Beheler on December 4, 2012
Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
The Atlanta Falcons hit the road to take on the Carolina Panthers
on Sunday. The NFC South champs are riding high, while the Panthers'
season is continuing its downward spiral. On paper, the Falcons merely
need to execute to secure their 12th win. Games are not played on paper
though, and looking past the Panthers could be more costly than a
blemish on Atlanta's record.
Rivalry Trifecta
The Atlanta Falcons will be facing their third division rival in as many weeks. The Falcons grounded out a 24-23 victory against a physical Tampa Bay Buccaneers squad. Four days later, the Falcons left the Georgia Dome emotionally spent after defeating the New Orleans Saints, 23-13. Each game was intense and took their toll on the Falcons roster. Most notably, Asante Samuel was banged up in both games.
Heading to Charlotte will be no picnic. If familiarity breeds contempt, then there is a reason for these two teams to hate each other. The Panthers have not had a victory over the Falcons since 2009, and they have undoubtedly not forgotten the heartbreak of how close they came earlier this year in Atlanta. If any team in the league has chip on its shoulder, it is the Carolina Panthers.
Gunning For Ryan
When the two teams met in September, the Carolina Panthers attacked Matt Ryan with an unmatched ferocity. Ryan was constantly under pressure and banged around all day. The Panthers sacked Ryan seven times for a total of 64 yards. Despite being pummeled, Ryan still threw for 369 yards and three touchdowns.
Atlanta has had a little more success in the run the game, but the key to defeating them still requires stopping Ryan in the fourth quarter. The Panthers will be looking to hit him early and often in order to stymie the Atlanta offense.
Focus For Safety's Sake
In two weeks, the Falcons will become a part of the national discussion when they take on the New York Giants. The Giants dealt Atlanta a humiliating 24-2 playoff defeat. The Giants will also join the long list of "we will respect the Falcons when they beat...," teams. No one could blame Atlanta if it stole its attention.
The Panthers have nothing left to play for but pride and a sense of revenge. A loss will mean little in the Panthers' already disjointed locker room, but a victory could mean everything. The Panthers will be a highly motivated and highly physical team on Sunday. This will make them far more dangerous to the Falcons than just the win-loss column.
If the Falcons take them lightly, it will be at their own peril.
Where: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, N.C.
When: Sunday, December 9, 1 p.m. ET
Watch: FOX
Live Stream: NFL.com
Injury Report (via CBS Sports, as of Dec. 3)
Panthers: Antwan Applewhite (doubtful, hamstring), Cam Newton (probable, right wrist), Jonathan Stewart (doubtful, ankle), Brandon LaFell (unknown, foot), Sherrod Martin (unknown, right knee), Captain Munnerlyn (questionable, hamstring)
Falcons: Sam Baker (probable, groin), Kevin Cone (probable, groin), Harry Douglas (probable, ankle), Peria Jerry (questionable, quadriceps), Charles Mitchell (probable, calf), Stephen Nicholas (probable, knee), Michael Palmer (probable, back), Dunta Robinson (probable, illness), Asante Samuel (questionable, shoulder), Vance Walker (probable, ribs), Sean Weatherspoon (probable, ankle).
What's At Stake?
After clinching the NFC South upon a Tampa Bay Buccaneers loss, the Falcons are cruising toward the NFC's top seed whether they win Sunday or not.
Plus, the NFC's next-best teams (San Francisco and Chicago) both picked up losses last week, extending Atlanta's lead.
For the Panthers, their playoff hopes have evaporated but they still have the opportunity to pick up undoubtedly the best win of their season and close out strong to give the league a reason to fear them in 2013.
Then again, they're only a couple of losses away from claiming a top-five pick in next year's draft.
Rivalry Trifecta
The Atlanta Falcons will be facing their third division rival in as many weeks. The Falcons grounded out a 24-23 victory against a physical Tampa Bay Buccaneers squad. Four days later, the Falcons left the Georgia Dome emotionally spent after defeating the New Orleans Saints, 23-13. Each game was intense and took their toll on the Falcons roster. Most notably, Asante Samuel was banged up in both games.
Heading to Charlotte will be no picnic. If familiarity breeds contempt, then there is a reason for these two teams to hate each other. The Panthers have not had a victory over the Falcons since 2009, and they have undoubtedly not forgotten the heartbreak of how close they came earlier this year in Atlanta. If any team in the league has chip on its shoulder, it is the Carolina Panthers.
Gunning For Ryan
When the two teams met in September, the Carolina Panthers attacked Matt Ryan with an unmatched ferocity. Ryan was constantly under pressure and banged around all day. The Panthers sacked Ryan seven times for a total of 64 yards. Despite being pummeled, Ryan still threw for 369 yards and three touchdowns.
Steve Dykes/Getty Images
Atlanta has had a little more success in the run the game, but the key to defeating them still requires stopping Ryan in the fourth quarter. The Panthers will be looking to hit him early and often in order to stymie the Atlanta offense.
Focus For Safety's Sake
In two weeks, the Falcons will become a part of the national discussion when they take on the New York Giants. The Giants dealt Atlanta a humiliating 24-2 playoff defeat. The Giants will also join the long list of "we will respect the Falcons when they beat...," teams. No one could blame Atlanta if it stole its attention.
The Panthers have nothing left to play for but pride and a sense of revenge. A loss will mean little in the Panthers' already disjointed locker room, but a victory could mean everything. The Panthers will be a highly motivated and highly physical team on Sunday. This will make them far more dangerous to the Falcons than just the win-loss column.
If the Falcons take them lightly, it will be at their own peril.
Where: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, N.C.
When: Sunday, December 9, 1 p.m. ET
Watch: FOX
Live Stream: NFL.com
Injury Report (via CBS Sports, as of Dec. 3)
Panthers: Antwan Applewhite (doubtful, hamstring), Cam Newton (probable, right wrist), Jonathan Stewart (doubtful, ankle), Brandon LaFell (unknown, foot), Sherrod Martin (unknown, right knee), Captain Munnerlyn (questionable, hamstring)
Falcons: Sam Baker (probable, groin), Kevin Cone (probable, groin), Harry Douglas (probable, ankle), Peria Jerry (questionable, quadriceps), Charles Mitchell (probable, calf), Stephen Nicholas (probable, knee), Michael Palmer (probable, back), Dunta Robinson (probable, illness), Asante Samuel (questionable, shoulder), Vance Walker (probable, ribs), Sean Weatherspoon (probable, ankle).
What's At Stake?
After clinching the NFC South upon a Tampa Bay Buccaneers loss, the Falcons are cruising toward the NFC's top seed whether they win Sunday or not.
Plus, the NFC's next-best teams (San Francisco and Chicago) both picked up losses last week, extending Atlanta's lead.
For the Panthers, their playoff hopes have evaporated but they still have the opportunity to pick up undoubtedly the best win of their season and close out strong to give the league a reason to fear them in 2013.
Then again, they're only a couple of losses away from claiming a top-five pick in next year's draft.
Atlanta Falcons: Like this team?
RUNNING BACK BY COMMITTEE
The Michael Turner and Jacquizz Rodgers running back committee might work after all.For the second game in a row, Rodgers took more snaps at running back than Turner in Thursday night's victory over the New Orleans Saints
Rodgers played 53 percent (31 of 58) of the offensive snaps. Turner played 34 percent (20 of 58).
Turner and Rodgers combined for 126 rushing yards on 20 carries and one touchdown against the Saints.
Turner, Rodgers, Jason Snelling and Mike Cox combined for eight catches for 38 yards.
Cox, who is getting up to speed since being re-signed on Nov. 7, had some nice lead blocks in the run game against the Saints.
 |
| Will Mike Cox fill the FB void left by the loss of the MUGBOAT? |
Smith noted that the Falcons had five runs of 12 yards or more against the Saints.
It was the fourth consecutive home game in which Turner has scored a rushing touchdown. With the 58th score of his tenure as a Falcon, Turner broke the mark previously held by Falcons wide receiver Terance Mathis, who played in Atlanta from 1994 to 2001.
With the Falcons determined to run on the Saints, Turner had 67 yards on five carries in the first quarter. That total was more than he gained in all but three other games this season.
Turner was held to 17 yards on 13 carries Sunday against Tampa Bay.
In the previous meeting with the Saints, Turner was held to 15 yards on 13 carries and was stopped on a key third-and-goal from the 1-yard line with 1:56 to play in the 31-27 loss.
COACH MIKE
A Denver victory gives the Falcons the NFC South title with four games to play.
"I will not be watching that game," Smith said on Friday. "I'm going to spend some time with the family and get focused on Carolina"
With the Thursday game, the Falcons approached the weekend as a mini-bye. Smith gave the players the weekend off.
"We're just starting the fourth quarter of the season and there is going to be a lot of things happening over these last four weeks," Smith said. "It'll be fun for the teams involved. It ought to be fun for the fans and it's going to be fun for the coaches. Football in December, it can't get any better."
The extra time will give cornerback Asante Samuel's shoulder extra time to heal.
"Asante knocked his shoulder again on the deep ball there," Smith said. "Unfortunately for us, he only got three snaps in the ballgame."
Christopher Owens and Robert McClain split up Samuel's playing time. Owens played outside in the nickel and McClain went inside.
McClain played outside in the base defense.
"It was very good to see Christopher Owens come in and man that corner position," Smith said. "I thought he did a nice job. He had a pass break up on a deep ball there in the second quarter."
ETC.
-Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez couldn't believe the uproar that
ensued after the Saints team bus was egged while leaving
Hartsfield-Jackson Airport on Wednesday night.
"Why are they complaining about these eggs," a perplexed Gonzalez
said. "When I was out in Kansas City and we'd go out and play Kansas
City, we were egged every game. When we went out there, it was eggs,
batteries and beer."
-The Falcons scored on their opening drive against the Saints for the eighth time this season.
-They lead the NFL with 44 points (five touchdowns and three field goals) on their first offensive possessions this season.
-Kicker Matt Bryant moved into the top five on the team's all-time scoring list.
-His 11 points against the Saints pushed his total to 404 points and moved him past kicker Norm Johnson (395) into fifth place.
-Bryant made two extra points and field goals of 45, 29 and 55 yards. The 55-yarder tied his season-long.
-Defensive end John Abraham had a sack to push his total to
10 and mark the seventh time in his career that he's had double-digit
sacks.
-He is currently the NFL's active sack leader with 122 career sacks.
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WEEK 13 NFL POWER RANKINGS
Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images
With only a few weeks remaining in the season, the power has shifted in the NFL.
The NFC looked much stronger in the middle of the season, with only the Houston Texans being a likely possible Super Bowl contender in the AFC. However, things have changed dramatically and some teams are looking worse than originally thought.
Now, it seems like the AFC is the side that is set to dominate the remainder of the season.
Week 13, specifically, was full of some season-changing losses that have changed the perception for a few squads on the decline.
Here are the latest power rankings following the past week of games.
1. Atlanta Falcons
By avenging their only loss against the New Orleans Saints, the Falcons have solidified themselves as the top team in the NFC. Despite constant criticism from the national media, the Falcons continue to win week after week. Now the team has to learn what it takes to win in the postseason.
2. Houston Texans
The Texans defense got back to form after two miserable performances in consecutive weeks.
After allowing 68 points to the Jacksonville Jaguars and Detroit Lions, Houston held the Tennessee Titans to only 10 points in the win. This team looks back on track.
3. New England Patriots
New England has been dominant against some of the weaker teams in the NFL and some of the average teams. However, these next two weeks will really prove the team's skill level.
Home games against the Texans and San Francisco 49ers will mean more mentally than in the standings.
4. Denver Broncos
Another week, another win for the Broncos, who have now won seven in a row.
This team is very well-rounded and have the ability to beat anyone with Peyton Manning at the helm.
5. Green Bay Packers
Although the Packers got back on track with a win over the Minnesota Vikings, there are still three more divisional games remaining.
These games will end up deciding arguably the toughest division in the NFL.
6. Baltimore Ravens
A win over the Pittsburgh Steelers and a loss by the Cincinnati Bengals would have clinched the AFC North for the Ravens.
Unfortunately, the team now only has a two-game lead with four weeks remaining in the season.
Joe Flacco completed only 16 of his 34 passes and was largely outplayed by a 37-year-old Charlie Batch. Joe Flacco, was touted as the newest NFL Elite has seen his stock fall recently.
For some reason, Ray Rice only had 12 rushing attempts in the loss, even with an average of 6.5 yards per carry.
Despite the 9-3 record, the Ravens have some serious question marks that must be answered before they can win in the playoffs.
Patrick Smith/Getty Images
7. Chicago Bears
The team fought hard just to reach overtime but still ended up with a loss as the legend of Russell Wilson continues to grow.
This game could end up hurting down the line as a tiebreaker, even though there are still plenty of big games remaining in the season. But, we must ask, where has the "vaunted Bears defense" gone?
8. San Francisco 49ers
David Welker/Getty Images
It looks like we have a quarterback controversy once again.
Colin Kaepernick earned the starting job over Alex Smith with his great play against the Bears and New Orleans Saints, but a loss to the St. Louis Rams should have the coaching staff rethinking the situation.
The second-year quarterback had a few great plays, but there were more bad decisions than good ones.
This team has the ability to win a Super Bowl with steady quarterback play, but the question remains of which player is the better option.
9. New York Giants
No team in the NFL had a bigger win last week than the New York Giants. The win not only gave the team confidence after a losing streak, but it extended the team's division lead.
However, a loss to the Washington Redskins on Monday Night Football would put the team right back where it started. Is the Atlanta Falcons' win on teh road vs. RGIII now looking better?
10. Indianapolis Colts
What Andrew Luck has done with this team is simply outstanding. After a 2-14 season, the Colts are now in line for a playoff spot with an 8-4 record.
Luck should not only be in consideration for Rookie of the Year but also, quite possibly, the Most Valuable Player award.
11. Pittsburgh Steelers
It is hard to get a read on the Steelers, as they followed up an awful loss to the Cleveland Browns with a great win on the road against the Ravens.
Justin K. Aller/Getty Images
The only thing that is certain is that this team is full of fighters, and they will not give up on the season, regardless of who gets injured. Good for Charlie Batch and came out and played with tremendous heart in a tough environment. Wonder how his performance made Joe Flacco feel??
12. Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks have a very impressive resume of wins this year, including the Patriots, Packers and now the Bears. The latest win might be the biggest because it proves that they can defeat a good team on the road.
This will be a team that no one wants to see in the postseason.
13. Cincinnati Bengals
After losing four straight games, the Bengals have now won four in a row and are tied for the last wild-card spot in the AFC.
Quarterback Andy Dalton has been outstanding during the current run, and this team will be dangerous for the rest of the year.
14. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Ezra Shaw/Getty Images
Four wins in a row put the Buccaneers squarely in the playoff hunt at 6-4. A couple of better bounces and the team defeats the Atlanta Falcons and are only two games away from the division lead.
Unfortunately, a one-point loss to the Falcons was followed by another close defeat at the hands of the Broncos.
This brings the team to 6-6 and in a desperate situation for the playoffs.
There is still a lot of talent on the offense for the Bucs, but the entire team will need to step up over the next four weeks in order to keep the season going.
15. Minnesota Vikings
It does not matter how close the losses are, dropping four of five this late in the season is enough to make reaching the postseason a longshot.
16. St. Louis Rams
Although the Rams were close to tying the 49ers for the second time in four weeks, Greg Zuerlein came through and kicked the game winner.
Ronald Martinez/Getty Images
Even if the team does not reach the postseason this year, the young squad should have a lot of confidence going into 2013.
17. Washington Redskins
The season truly comes down to the Monday night game against the Giants. A win puts the Redskins in the hunt for the division, but a loss drops them three games back without a tiebreaker. No pressure or anything.
18. Dallas Cowboys
Defeating the Philadelphia Eagles keeps the season alive, and the offense has the ability to beat anyone it plays. The question is whether they can remain consistent.
Drew Brees picked a bad day to have one of the worst games of his career - against the rival Falcons after declaring on National Television that the NFC South was their division. Ooopsie.
He gave his team no chance of winning with five interceptions and no touchdowns against the division leaders, and it might have effectively ended the season for the Saints.
20. Buffalo Bills
Buffalo has been solid at home this year with a 3-2 record, including a one-point loss to the Tennessee Titans.
With three more games at Ralph Wilson Stadium, this struggling team can end up with a respectable final record.
21. Detroit Lions
Gregory Shamus/Getty Images
Of the Lions' eight losses, only one of which was by more than a score.
This week was more of the same as the Lions fell to the Colts on a last-second touchdown pass by Andrew Luck.
While the close defeats show the talent, it also proves that this team is undisciplined. Little mistakes have cost the team all year, whether those are by the players or the coaches.
The organization has to have a serious discussion if they can win with Jim Schwartz leading the team.
22. Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins have still been better than their preseason expectations, but four losses in the last five games have taken the team out of the running for the playoffs.
23. Cleveland Browns
First, the Browns prove they can beat the Steelers. Then, the team shows it can win on the road.
With these mental blocks out of the way, Cleveland can be on the way towards more wins this year and next.
24. Tennessee Titans
Jake Locker might be better than Matt Hasselbeck, but with five interceptions in the past two games, he still does not look like a franchise quarterback.
25. New York Jets
Mark Sanchez finally got pulled for Tim Teb...I mean Greg McElory. Either way, the backup received a standing ovation when he entered the field.
After three more interceptions on Sunday, a monkey in a Jets jersey would have excited the crowd more than Sanchez.
26. San Diego Chargers
Donald Miralle/Getty Images
For the second week in a row, the Chargers had a 13-10 lead in the fourth quarter.
For the second week in a row, the Chargers gave up the lead and looked bad doing it.
Philip Rivers throws a lot of passes, but he has been completely ineffective, and he is getting worse. With the game on the line, few quarterbacks would be less trustworthy at this point.
It is about that time of year for the team to start assessing which pieces will be part of the future.
27. Philadelphia Eagles
Bryce Brown can be part of the future of the team, but Nick Foles still needs to prove he can be more than a backup. Mike Vick, where have you gone? Where will you go?
28. Carolina Panthers
It was a difficult week for all involved, but that does not excuse the Panthers for the other eight losses this season. At least Cam Newton had a good game with three touchdowns and no interceptions. No time for pouting, pussy cats, as the Atlanta Falcons come to call on December 9.
29. Arizona Cardinals
Whether John Skelton, Ryan Lindley or Kevin Kolb is at quarterback, this team is not winning any games in the near future.
The offense managed to score only six points and averaged only 2.5 yards per play. Yuck.
Sam Greenwood/Getty Images
30. Jacksonville Jaguars
The team is way out of a playoff spot, but the Jaguars are getting a chance to evaluate talent for the future. The good news is that receivers Justin Blackmon and Cecil Shorts will be part of that future.
31. Kansas City Chiefs
You never know how a team is going to responded after a tragedy, but the Chiefs took care of business in an emotional home win over the Panthers.
Regardless of what else happens this year, they should feel good about this victory.
32. Oakland Raiders
Five losses in a row. The offense cannot score. The defense cannot stop anyone. Even when healthy, this team is simply pathetic.
| 2012-13 NFL Playoffs Schedule | |
Playoff Picture is Clearing
2012-13 NFL Playoffs Schedule
Teams that have clinched NFL Playoff berths as of Monday, Dec. 3:
AFC: Denver, Houston, New England
NFC: Atlanta
NFC: Atlanta
AFC Wild-Card Round
| January 5-6, 2013 | ||
 | Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens Projection by NFL.com (as of 12/3) |  |
| January 5-6, 2013 | ||
 | Indianapolis Colts at Denver Broncos Projection by NFL.com (as of 12/3) |  |
AFC Divisional Round
| January 12-13, 2013 | ||
 | Lowest Winning Wild-Card Seed at Houston Projection by NFL.com (as of 12/3) |  |
| January 12-13, 2013 | ||
| Highest Winning Wild-Card Seed at New England Projection by NFL.com (as of 12/3) |  |
AFC Championship Game
| Sunday, Jan. 20, 2013 - 6:30 p.m. ET, CBS | ||
| AFC vs. AFC Site TBA | |
NFC Wild-Card Round
| January 5-6, 2013 | ||
 | Seattle Seahawks at Green Bay Packers Projection by NFL.com (as of 12/3) |  |
| January 5-6, 2013 | ||
 | Chicago Bears at N.Y. Giants Projection by NFL.com (as of 12/3) |  |
NFC Divisional Round
| January 12-13, 2013 | ||
 | Lowest Winning Wild-Card Seed at Atlanta Projection by NFL.com (as of 12/3) |  |
| January 12-13, 2013 | ||
| Highest Winning Wild-Card Seed at San Francisco Projection by NFL.com (as of 12/3) |  |
NFC Championship Game
| Sunday, Jan. 20, 2013 - 3 p.m. ET, FOX | ||
| NFC vs. NFC Site TBA | |
Super Bowl XLVII
| Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013 - 6:30 p.m. ET, CBS | ||
| AFC Champion vs. NFC Champion Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, LA Buy Tickets | |
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