Archives for September 2005

‘WR Michael Jenkins is averaging 25 yards per reception, but the Falcons passing game – largely because of Vick’s erratic completion percentage – shouldn’t be Buffalo’s prime concern. If the Bills can keep Vick contained and stuff the running game, the Falcons will struggle to score, especially at the fired-up Ralph.’

Safest bet: Reveal injuries (Atlanta Journal Constitution)

Five keys for the Falcons (Atlanta Journal Constitution)

Falcons must persist against a defensive-minded Buffalo (Macon Telegraph)

Falcons, Bills have both struggled on offense (Savannah Morning News)

‘How frustrating is it for the defense to repeatedly see the offense go three and out? And do you verbally say anything to the offense to inspire them to do better next time their out on the field?

Jeff Posey: As a team we are always encouraging each other. We encourage the offense saying “we will get them next time.” As a team we just comfort and encourage each other. They also encourage us when we are on defense.’

‘The game at Orchard Park is an early-season test for two non-conference teams with playoff-contending hopes, both attempting to rebound from discouraging road losses.’

‘"They can come at you in different ways," said Bills defensive coordinator Jerry Gray. "You’ve got a guy like Dunn who is small but has a lot of speed. Duckett is a big guy who can pound it between the tackles. And of course, you have to account for Vick. It’s going to be a challenge for our defense to stop these guys. After last week, I think our guys will be ready to play better than they did in Tampa."’

‘CBS’ new starter, Rich Gannon, had an impressive start analyzing Bills quarterback J.P. Losman last Sunday. The retired Oakland Raiders quarterback did a solid job alongside CBS play-by-play man Bill Macatee explaining what Losman didn’t see in the Bills’ 19-3 debacle in Tampa Bay.’

‘”You can’t practice for the things he does,” he said. “You can simulate it but the speed is unrealistic, just like it is on Sundays. I don’t think we could ever get the real picture (in practice).”‘

Injuries hit at thin positions (Atlanta Journal Constitution)

‘Atlanta Falcons QB Michael Vick is always trying to convince sportswriters and fans that he’s capable of being a “real” quarterback, one who can stand squarely in the pocket and make the difficult throws far downfield. This week, with his left hamstring still tender, would seem a good time to prove it.’

‘A high-ranking New Orleans Saints official hit the airwaves Friday, urging fans to buy the remaining 17,000 tickets for the team’s Oct.2 game with the Buffalo Bills at the Alamodome.’

‘Quarterback Michael Vick practiced Friday for the second straight day and likely will start when the Atlanta Falcons visit Buffalo this weekend.’

‘Mularkey says he gave Takeo Spikes the day off. He did have his lower leg in a wrap, but Mularkey says it’s just a day off and he won’t be added to the injury report.’

‘Vick is 23-for-42 for 279 yards, one touchdown and an interception this season. Bills first-year starter J.P. Losman is 29-for-56 for 283 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions. After a disappointing game last week in Tampa, Losman looks to regroup against the league’s 31st ranked pass defense.’

‘Three Buffalo starters remain questionable for Sunday’s game against the Atlanta Falcons. Linebacker London Fletcher, safety Lawyer Milloy and offensive tackle Mike Williams will each be game-time decisions, after suffering injuries last weekend in Tampa.’

‘Fletcher practiced for the second straight day Friday, while Williams was still hobbling due to an ankle injury that has forced him to miss practice all week. The two also will be game-time decisions.’