The Flightless Dirty Birds

By: Shea Harman and Brett Houdeshell

The 2013-14 season as a whole hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows for the preseason Super Bowl predicted Falcons. But before we get into this season lets backtrack a little. Atlanta ended their season merely inches away from the Super Bowl to a very good SF 49ers team. The end of the season is always a bummer for most teams, but you can’t go wrong with everyone playing their best, all the starters healthy, and your Hall of Fame tight end coming back for another season. Then it all went downhill. Most of you can probably guess what happened next, injuries. This year the whole roster was plagued with them ranging from offensive linemen, to special teams players, and even to wide receiver Julio Jones who is now out for the year. On top of this they have played multiple games without key starters such as Steven Jackson, Sean Weatherspoon, Tony Gonzalez, Roddy White, and Asante Samuel. All of these injuries along with lack of leadership have led to their abysmal record of just 3-9.

Julio Jones heading to the locker room after an injury.

(NFLSi.com)

Up to this point Atlanta’s season has been a bust and is pretty much over. Although they are tied with division opponent Tampa Bay they still sit at the bottom of the NFC South, and are also tied for the second worst record in the NFL. Coach Mike Smith has been quoted by saying that the rookies and second-string guys will be getting more playing time the week of the Bills game. Many would say that these actions signify the Front Office throwing in the towel, but I have other thoughts. Even with a lot of normal starters sitting, they did in fact win the game at Buffalo in overtime. To me, it doesn’t seem like the Falcons are giving up necessarily, but are looking for a new answer to the problem. Sometimes to find a new star you have to give the backup a chance to let his talents shine, which is now a days known as the Aaron Rodgers method.

If the season were to end today the Falcons would have the 4th pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. All three teams in front of Atlanta will potentially need QB’s, which opens the doorway for their original plans. And with the 4^th pick in the 2014 NFL Draft the Atlanta Falcons select…Jadaveon Clowney from South Carolina. I can hear it now, sweet music to my ears. The Falcons defense was horrendous this season, so far placing 20th in the league for passing defense and having 30th worst defense overall. During the 2013 offseason one of the main goals was to upgrade our pass rush shortly after losing Defensive Captain John Abraham. Unfortunately, the only real shopping done on the defensive line was picking up free agent Osi Umenyiora, who is honestly getting on in years. But with our new addition of Clowney he would help put pressure on opposing quarterbacks along with taking up space in the running lanes. Many are opposing this pick by stating that his attitude will only cause problems on the field and in the locker room, but I have faith in the 6’6 250 lb. Defensive End. I believe that wise veterans on the team such as Steven Jackson and Sean Weatherspoon can coach him up and to make sure his actions are precise and his intentions clear.

Jadaveon Clowney making an athletic play for the sack.

(Elevenathletes.com)

     

    On a positive note, the Falcons drafts picks from 2013 have showed great potential so far. When veteran CB Asante Samuel was injured for a short period of time earlier this season, rookie Corner Desmond Trufant has stepped up big time. Aside from his tackling he is very versatile and can cover tight due to his amazing speed. In retrospect he resembles former Falcon Brent Grimes from his early days in the sense that he is not very physical, but can stay on your tail and “get up” when needed.

Desmond Trufant excited to be a Falcon shortly after the draft.

(FoxNews.com)

         Overall the Falcons main concerns this offseason should be focused on their Defensive/Offensive lines and secondary. It’s hard for us fans to remain optimistic about the future when your team can’t produce after having such high expectations. I do believe however, that it is important for Falcons fans to stay positive. While we are at the bottom of the league we must remember the night is darkest just before the dawn. Our team hasn’t given up yet, so why should you? Even in the game against New England, down big with 6 minutes Matt Ryan never quit and led the charge for a comeback. Although they didn’t win, that is the type of stuff defines heart and can potentially turn a team around. Maybe with a good offseason, healthy players, and a little bit of luck our Dirty Birds can too.

Atlant Braves: 2013 Season Recap

As sports fanatics we go through various situations that put us through a number of emotions. I’ll give you three scenarios and you tell me which situation you would prefer as a fan.

#1: It is September of 2011 and the most anticipated month for baseball fans everywhere.  The leaves in Georgia are starting to change colors as fall approaches, but as the weather gets a little colder, the air doesn’t cease to remain electric. The Atlanta Braves rolled into the final month of the regular season with a 8 and a half game lead in the Wild Card race on September 6th, and still found a way to loose grip of their playoff hopes. After losing the last fives games of the regular season in a row, the St. Louis Cardinals found their way into the playoffs on the last day of baseball. The only somewhat positive note about the whole situation is that the Braves had company in Boston do the exact same thing. But as the Phillies hung on to win in the 13th inning of the final game, so did the overlying feeling that this game wasn’t their only chance to clinch. This pain however did not slip away as easily as the changing leaves, and did not settle out till spring was in the air once again.

 Braves dugout after season collapse. (InsideBaseball.com)

#2: Hot, sweaty, rowdy, and ticked off. The fans in Atlanta will never let go the infamous rule that killed all hope. The infield fly call in the NL Wildcard game of 2012 was easily one of the worst calls in MLB history.  However, before the game was even played the Braves were already down about their luck. The one year they finally have a stable lead in the Wildcard standings, they are forced to play a one game playoff against guess who? That’s right, the St. Louis Cardinals, and just as fate would soon intend, the game would head in favor of the opposition. After SS Andrelton Simmons popped up a ball into shallow Left field, the Cardinals defenders got mixed up on who was to catch the ball, and it dropped, giving the Braves a new life down three in the bottom of the 8th. But soon enough the roars of the crowd turned into menacing boo’s. The Umpire Crew came to the conclusion that the infield fly rule was in effect, giving the braves another out and slaughtering the momentum. Enraged the entire stadium lit up in a frenzy throwing trash onto the field to show their displeasure. After taking an hour, all the debris was picked up and the game resumed play. Although there was still a chance for the Braves to pull out a win, it was far from possible. Without the fire of your fan base and luck not on your side, the braves were not destined for the playoffs. So for the second year in a row, the Braves missed the playoffs, with the Cardinals taking their place. The pain from this loss however, wasn’t centralized at all. What made this L even worse, was the fact that one of the greatest third basemen of all time, Chipper Jones, was retiring after the seasons end. His ambitious nature made him a person who never seeks to settle, but the taste left in his mouth after this one was not something anyone would love to end on. Once again, the Braves would have to look towards April, and a new start.

 Braves crew picking up trash after terrible call. (MLB.com)

#3: After two years of pure disappointment changes needed to be made, and those changes fortunately occurred shortly afterward. The 2012-2013 offseason was a historic one for the boys of the South, and the money that the Braves franchise seemed to be saving up was finally used. After singing free agent BJ Upton to a 5 year $72.52 Million contract, the braves traded to get BJ’s brother Justin. It was one of the first times in MLB history that two brothers would play on the same team, and along with Jason Heyward, looked to have the most explosive outfield in the entire league. Although Atlanta needed to fill the holes in their offense with big bats, there was an even bigger hole that needed to be filled. Who was going to replace future Hall of Famer Larry “Chipper” Jones. Well that was taken care of by the Upton trade. Chris Johnson, the 3rd former 3rd basemen for Arizona, was soon to become a vital part of the Braves offense. But enough of the offseason, where is the good stuff? Well the Braves would start off the season as intended, big bats shooting the team to a great start with Justin Upton leading the way with 12 Homeruns in the Month of April. The season would go on and the Braves would soon face more ups and downs. After cooling off a little in June, the end of July and early August were promising times for the Braves. Their 14 game win streak was among one of the best in the last decade and gave them a Giant lead in the NL East in which even they couldn’t lose grip of. More time would pass and once again the leaves were changing colors. The playoffs crept around the corner and the Braves finally clinched that long lost NL East title. So, happy ending right? No, the season was all but over in the mindset of Atlanta fans, but fate had something else in mind. In Georgia it is sometimes very hard to highlight positive playoff experiences from its professional sports teams. That thought would soon remain true as the Braves were set up to play the red hot Los Angeles Dodgers and were also soon to feel the same disappointment of losing in the first round yet again. Clayton Kershaw stormed into Atlanta, striking out 12 Braves through 7 hard pitched innings and forcing fans to question if home field was even an advantage anymore. Surprisingly enough Atlanta would soon battle back and make it a legit series, sending the NLDS to a game 4 back in LA. It was a low scoring game and the braves had a 2-1 lead with two outs and two on in the 8th. But as fate would soon have it, Juan Uribe blasted a two-strike pitch far over the Left Field fence, sending the ball and the Braves hopes of the second round, out of the park.

Justin (left) and BJ (right) Upton after huge signing in offseason. (Ajc.com)

Now you tell me which situation do you really think is best? This past season was easily their best season in years and a successful one all around. The Braves improved immensely as a ball club and brought a new life to a city that hasn’t been relevant in over a decade. As dedicated fans we are here for our teams through thick and thin, but it seems the closer we get to a championship, the more dismal the downfall is. Many people have given up on Atlanta teams claiming another title, but I am here to remind all that there is a bright future, and that nothing lasts forever. When recapping this past season many fans forget that the Braves were missing three of there top starters: Tim Hudson, Brandon Beachy, and Paul Maholm, along with their 7th and 8th inning dangerous duo, Eric O’flaherty and Johnny Venters. Just a little food for thought. The leaves may have already changed and the weather already gotten colder, but once again Braves fans find themselves looking to Spring, where the road to the ring begins. All that’s left to do now is wait for the return of Braves Country and Chop on.

By, Shea Harman 

Equality in Sports: America's Progress through Race, Gender, and Sexuality

By Shea Harman

"I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character." - Martin Luther King Jr. On August 28th, 1963, the active pacifist from Atlanta, Georgia, started the greatest racial equality movement in history. This speech has not only influenced every aspect of civil rights, but started a revolution in sports as well. All of the achievements that happened in the past have translated to the world we live in today.

Martin Luther King Jr. had a huge impact on not only everyday American lives, but on the sports world as well.

WCHB News Detroit

Sports have been the main contributor when showing how our nations push for racial equality has effected every day events. Normal people have been given the ability to do extraordinary things, no matter the color of your skin, or how you speak, where you're from, or what you look like. Sports give us, as humans, the chance to show how none of that matters and teach us that the better-prepared man will always win. It is a willing testament to the definition of limitation, and how far you are willing to push yourself, no matter the resistance, or the haters, or even the negligent people who focus on simple attributes such as race. This only exemplifies the love of sports even more. Today we see so many athletes who have come against all odds to reach the goals they have been dreaming about since they were kids. Everyone loves a story where a young boy or girl has the ability to defy his upbringing, provide for his family, or even to find enjoyment through sport as the only happiness in their life.

Now for you statistical junkies, I haven't left any of that out. As progress shows, sports have offered many jobs to people of a minority race. Over the past couple decades the NBA, NFL, and MLB, have had the ability to incorporate all parts of society into their organizations. From a 2012 report, the percentage of African-American players in the NFL is now around 67%, which is a huge jump from the early days of football when African-Americans weren't allowed to play. The NBA has been known as a "Black League" for the last decade or so, and still holds the title belt today, reaching an amazing 78% African-American and a surprising 4% Latino as well. These two organizations first opened up sports to just African-Americans, but through vigorous pushes for rights and cultural integration, have influenced other ethnicities to join other sports. The MLB was actually the first real sport to break the color barrier with the help of Jackie Robinson, or to some, the most courageous man in history. Defying odds and having the ability to take mountains of criticism, he dreamed of living in a world where race didn't matter, and it's safe to say his hard work and determination has paid off. I wish I could say the MLB has lots of African-American participation today, but it only stands at a small 8 percent. On a more positive note, the MLB has had the ability to maintain a steady 28 percent Hispanic population over the past couple years. This racial diversity is not only great for the MLB as an organization, but the sport itself, being the second most culturally diverse sport in the world, just behind soccer.

 

Soccer is the most racially diverse sport in the entire world.

Victor Decolongon/Getty Images

Unfortunately, we know there is a world outside of sports that cannot be as easily integrated as these organizations. But let's not think negatively, the world of sports has influenced the real world in many different ways. One can easily say that teams/organizations have inspired the public to break other boundaries. Gender and sexuality are two prime examples of this uprising.

Women have been limited in sports before, but it is inspiring to see how women are now treated as equal in the workplace, at home, and as individuals of society. In my mind ever since Emilia Earhart flew across the Atlantic, women have never looked back. What's great about sports, however, is that women have able to fight for rights, and let their game speak for them. After decades of gains, they still are striving for improvement, with an example being Danica Patrick, the first woman to ever race in NASCAR.

The other big change happening in the world today is sexuality. Major accomplishments have been made in this year alone for gay members of society. Laws, bills, and marriage have all been debated on whether or not homosexuals deserve these rights. Fortunately, sports have been a great way for gay athletes to speak their minds and lead the way for change, in hope that many will soon follow. Just recently, Jason Collins of the Washington Wizards came out with big news, being the first active player to publically admit he was gay. The NBA was happy for his decision, as was the public, accepting him for his courageous act while battling all odds.

Jason Collins is a hero to many.

Kwaku Alston/SI

Progress has no time period, it never stops. It’s what keeps the world turning, and in order to be one with society, you must change with it. The nation has gone through tremendous change within the last few decades, and still seeks improvement today. Sports offer us a way to escape these problems and to go up against barriers like race, age, gender, and sexuality. Although sports don't represent the real world, they offer a way for players to be proud of where they come from and unite teams as a family and brotherhood. Yesterday was the 50th Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's speech and today I'm proud to say his dream has finally become a reality.

Thanks for reading and follow us on Twitter @ATLSportsSoup! Keep checking back for more updates.

Atlants Falcons: 2013-2014 Season Expectations

by Shea Harman

January 20th, a day frowned upon by most in the heart of the south. Not usually known for its cold winters, the temperature in Georgia was close to freezing on this day, and what was soon to happen made everything that much colder. Football fans from everywhere spilled onto the streets of Atlanta and packed into the Georgia Dome for the NFC Championship game, featuring the 49er's vs. Falcons. The game goes on, as exciting as expected, and also as many had predicted, would come down to the very last play. Here, ill paint you a picture of how it went. The zip of the football is flying through the air, laces spinning, leather torqued, and spiral seemingly perfect. The quarterback stands so close, yet so far away from his intended target. The trajectory of the ball is quality, his sights are clear, but what stands in the way of the ball and the receiver is all but helpful. The defender jumps in front of the receiver knocks down the pass, and ends not only the duration of the play, but the season as well. Midnight struck on this Cinderella story season for the Falcons as they were not only inches away from the Super Bowl, but were told by Hall of Fame Tight End Tony Gonzalez that this would be his last season. But little did the Falcons know, within the next few months, everything would be forgotten.

There are lots of questions to be answered this season, but some are of a player’s relevance on and off the field. First and Foremost, where is Tony Gonzalez now? Well, he's right where he should be, in Falcons training facilities gearing up for another season. After the 13 time pro-bowler said he was "95%" sure he was going to retire, the old man said he's not settling for anything less than a Super Bowl appearance. To go along with an amazing track record, a Super Bowl appearance for the 37 year old Gonzalez would be icing on the cake. Gonzalez is a huge key role for this patronized offense in Atlanta, and is predicted to have an even better year this year due to some new additions. Although TG's decision to return for another season made for a lot of conversation at training camp, he isn't the only new member being talked about.

Massive, intimidating, prodigious, these are all words that should be used when describing the presence of new Falcon Steven Jackson. After signing his 3-year $12 Million contract, the new starting running back got straight to work meeting teammates, working out with the team, and focusing on making this complex offense even more dynamic. Michael Turner was useful for the Falcons in his first few years with Atlanta, but it was soon evident that in this last 2012 season, age and athleticism had soon caught up to what some call "Michael Turner the Turtle." When asked what kind of back the Falcons need, Mike Smith responded by saying, "We need a more explosive back that can hit the holes hard." Well when looking at Steven Jackson, he is the right man for the job. Along with his speed and robust body, he is a smart RB who can block pretty well. Atlanta looks to utilize these aspects when opening up the play-action more this year along with multi-purpose back Jaquizz Rodgers. The two backs are predicted to have a successful season while complementing the amazing air attack that this offense has.

 

Steven Jackson is in the first year of a four-year deal with the Falcons.

Crave Online

Training camp has gone smoothly for the Falcons, but it’s never easy to get a team going in the start of the season. A lot of work is done behind the scenes to get players/staff ready for the season. Most teams take a couple real games to get them going, but that's not the same for Atlanta. Last year the Falcons were off the hottest start in football and after week 9, they were the only undefeated team remaining. Despite being predicted to come in 2nd or 3rd in the NFC South, the Falcons had the biggest lead of any NFC team and soon when on to capture the 1st seed for the playoffs. Head Coach Mike Smith says the Falcons look to repeat their early year success and dominate the first half of the season, so they don't put themselves in a sticky situation. Hopefully the repeat of 9-0 can be done, because the Falcons play on Sundays, is somewhat symbolic to their schedule as well.

Any true Atlanta fan knows that every game, the Falcons dominate the first half, usually getting off to a huge lead and or limiting the other team to a few points. But then comes the second half, where our defense just seems to give up sometimes and eventually let them come back, setting up Matt Ryan for a potential game winning drive. Their 2013 schedule looks all too similar. The Falcons first half schedule is pretty easy with the only challenge being New England at home during week 3 and a BYE during week 6. But the second half, doesn't look pretty. Much more competition and in the final four games of the season, they play 3 playoff teams. Weeks 14, 15, and 16 look a little something like this; @ Green bay, vs. Washington, and @ San Francisco. Going to be a tough couple weeks, with the season nearing an end, and with two of those games being away. This is the main reason getting off to a hot start is crucial for the Falcons.

 

The Falcons are hoping rookie starter Desmond Trufant will be able to contribute early.

Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

 

A lot of obstacles stand in the way between the Falcons and their first Super Bowl win in history, but there is a good chance it can be done. New first round CBs, a veteran powerhouse RB, and a returning HOF Tight End will all help, but the true test is on the field. As for my prediction; I believe the Falcons will finish the season a strong 12-4 with losses against New Orleans, Carolina, Green Bay, and San Francisco, but will still take the second overall seed in the playoffs. But that’s merely a prediction, us Falcons fans will let our play talk, as we bleed red/black gearing up for the best 22 weeks of the year.

Thanks for reading and follow us on Twitter @ATLSportsSoup! Keep checking back for more updates!

Introduction to Atlanta Sports Soup

by Shea Harman

Welcome to the blog! Here at Atlanta Sports Soup, proudly part of the Sports Soup Network, we cover all of Atlanta's professional sports teams. We bring you fast, accurate, and reliable information on the Falcons, Braves, and Hawks. Getting you all of the latest talk heard only behind the scenes by means of interviews, fan opinion, and deep statistical analysis, is our first priority. Fresh and updated weekly, you'll never get bored with what we have to offer.

Here is a little bit about myself. I was born in Dallas, Texas, moved to the Peach state when I was 2 years old, and have lived in Milton, GA for the last 15 years. I've been an all-around sports fanatic since birth. Middle of three children in a family of five. Hobbies include creating inspirational advertisement, writing, and running as I am Captain of the Cross-Country/Track team at Milton High School. Blessed by the Grace of God every day.