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2007 Atlanta Falcons season

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2007 Atlanta Falcons season
OwnerArthur Blank
General managerRich McKay
Head coachBobby Petrino
Emmitt Thomas (interim)
Home fieldGeorgia Dome
Results
Record4–12
Division place4th NFC South
Playoff finishDid not qualify
Pro BowlersNone

The 2007 Atlanta Falcons season was the 42nd season for the franchise in the National Football League (NFL). They finished the 2007 season with a record of 4–12 and failed to improve upon their 7–9 record in 2006 after finishing third place in the NFC South.

The season was marred with the Falcons' starting quarterback Michael Vick getting indicted on federal and state charges over his involvement in an illegal dog fighting ring.[1] New head coach Bobby Petrino was initially hired to help develop Vick into a more complete quarterback and improve the Falcons' languid offense (ranked 25th in scoring) from the previous season, but with Vick's absence and longtime dependable backup quarterback Matt Schaub traded to the Houston Texans before Vick's indictment, Petrino was instead forced to rely on journeyman quarterbacks Joey Harrington, Byron Leftwich and Chris Redman for the offense. Petrino's game plan didn't fit, both on the field and in the locker room, with veteran players Alge Crumpler and DeAngelo Hall voicing their displeasure.[2]

Petrino later resigned just 13 games into the season to coach the Arkansas Razorbacks. Petrino resigned the day after Michael Vick was sentenced to 23 months in prison and also a day after Petrino coached the Falcons in a 34–14 loss to the New Orleans Saints on Monday Night Football. He did not address his players in person, only leaving a hand-written note.[3]

Offseason

[edit]

Head coach change

[edit]

Head coach Bobby Petrino spent less than a year with the Atlanta Falcons. He was hired on January 7, 2007 after the Falcons fired Jim Mora, Jr., who was fired on New Year's Day. On December 11, 2007, Petrino announced his resignation just 13 games into his first year.

Departures

[edit]
The Falcons in action against the Cincinnati Bengals in the preseason, August 27, 2007, at the Georgia Dome

Signings

[edit]

Free agents heading into the 2007 season

[edit]
Position Player Free agency
tag[4]		 Date signed 2007 team
K Morten Andersen UFA
TE Dwayne Blakley RFA April 4
CB Chris Cash UFA
G Ben Claxton ERFA
FB Justin Griffith UFA March 9 Oakland Raiders
DE Patrick Kerney UFA March 7 Seattle Seahawks
C Austin King RFA
P Michael Koenen ERFA March 19 Atlanta Falcons
WR Ashley Lelie UFA March 6 San Francisco 49ers
FB Fred McCrary UFA
FB Corey McIntyre ERFA March 19 Atlanta Falcons
QB Matt Schaub RFA[5] March 22 Houston Texans
S Lance Schulters UFA
LB Demorrio Williams RFA April 23 Atlanta Falcons

NFL Draft

[edit]
Main article: 2007 NFL draft
2007 Atlanta Falcons draft
Round Pick Player Position College Notes
1 8 Jamaal Anderson  Defensive end Arkansas from Houston
2 39 Justin Blalock  Guard Texas from Houston
2 41 Chris Houston  Cornerback Arkansas from Minnesota
3 75 Laurent Robinson  Wide receiver Illinois State
4 109 Stephen Nicholas  Linebacker South Florida Compensatory selection
4 133 Martrez Milner  Tight end Georgia
6 185 Trey Lewis  Defensive tackle Washburn from Jacksonville
6 194 David Irons  Cornerback Auburn from Jacksonville, thru Denver
6 198 Doug Datish  Center Ohio State from Jacksonville, thru Baltimore
6 203 Daren Stone  Safety Maine
7 244 Jason Snelling  Running back Virginia Compensatory selection
      Made roster  

[6]

Staff

[edit]
2007 Atlanta Falcons staff

Front office

Head coaches

Offensive coaches

Defensive coaches

Special teams coaches

Strength and conditioning


Roster

[edit]
2007 Atlanta Falcons roster
Quarterbacks (QB)

Running backs (RB)

Wide receivers (WR)

Tight ends (TE)

Offensive linemen (OL)

Defensive linemen (DL)

Linebackers (LB)

Defensive backs (DB)

Special teams

Practice squad

Reserve

Rookies in italics
53 active, 15 reserve, 6 practice squad

Preseason

[edit]
Week Date Opponent Result Record Venue Recap
1 August 10 at New York Jets L 16–31 0–1 Giants Stadium Recap
2 August 17 at Buffalo Bills W 13–10 1–1 Ralph Wilson Stadium Recap
3 August 27 Cincinnati Bengals W 24–19 2–1 Georgia Dome Recap
4 August 31 Baltimore Ravens W 13–10 3–1 Georgia Dome Recap

Regular season

[edit]

Schedule

[edit]
Week Date Opponent Result Record Venue Recap
1 September 9 at Minnesota Vikings L 3–24 0–1 Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome Recap
2 September 16 at Jacksonville Jaguars L 7–13 0–2 Jacksonville Municipal Stadium Recap
3 September 23 Carolina Panthers L 20–27 0–3 Georgia Dome Recap
4 September 30 Houston Texans W 26–16 1–3 Georgia Dome Recap
5 October 7 at Tennessee Titans L 13–20 1–4 LP Field Recap
6 October 15 New York Giants L 10–31 1–5 Georgia Dome Recap
7 October 21 at New Orleans Saints L 16–22 1–6 Superdome Recap
8 Bye
9 November 4 San Francisco 49ers W 20–16 2–6 Georgia Dome Recap
10 November 11 at Carolina Panthers W 20–13 3–6 Bank of America Stadium Recap
11 November 18 Tampa Bay Buccaneers L 7–31 3–7 Georgia Dome Recap
12 November 22 Indianapolis Colts L 13–31 3–8 Georgia Dome Recap
13 December 2 at St. Louis Rams L 16–28 3–9 Edward Jones Dome Recap
14 December 10 New Orleans Saints L 14–34 3–10 Georgia Dome Recap
15 December 16 at Tampa Bay Buccaneers L 3–37 3–11 Raymond James Stadium Recap
16 December 23 at Arizona Cardinals L 27–30 (OT) 3–12 University of Phoenix Stadium Recap
17 December 30 Seattle Seahawks W 44–41 4–12 Georgia Dome Recap

Game summaries

[edit]

Week 1: at Minnesota Vikings

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Falcons 0 0 033
Vikings 7 0 31424

at Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Game information
  • Q1 – MIN – 7:56 – Kevin Williams 54-yard interception return TD (Ryan Longwell kick) (MIN 7–0)
  • Q3 – MIN – 1:51 – Ryan Longwell 49-yard FG (MIN 10–0)
  • Q4 – ATL – 9:28 – Matt Prater 45-yard FG (MIN 10–3)
  • Q4 – MIN – 7:31 – 60-yard TD pass from Tarvaris Jackson to Adrian Peterson (Longwell kick) (MIN 17–3)
  • Q4 – MIN – 2:48 – Antoine Winfield 14-yard interception return TD (Longwell kick) (MIN 24–3)

Hoping to put a troublesome off-season behind them, the Falcons began their 2007 campaign on the road against the Minnesota Vikings. In the first quarter, Atlanta immediately trailed as Vikings DT Kevin Williams returned an interception 54 yards for a touchdown, which was the only score of the half. In the third quarter, Minnesota increased its lead with kicker Ryan Longwell getting a 49-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, the Falcons got their only score of the game, with kicker Matt Prater's 45-yard field goal. From there, the Vikings put the game away with QB Tarvaris Jackson completing a 60-yard TD pass to RB Adrian Peterson, along with CB Antoine Winfield returning an interception 14 yards for a touchdown.

QB Joey Harrington, in his Falcons debut, completed 23 out of 32 passes for 199 yards with no touchdowns and 2 interceptions.

With the loss, Atlanta began its season at 0–1.

Week 2: at Jacksonville Jaguars

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Falcons 0 7 007
Jaguars 0 3 01013

at Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, Jacksonville, Florida

  • Game time: 1:00 p.m. EDT
  • Game weather: 88 °F (31.1 °C), rainy
  • Game attendance: 61,821
  • Referee: Tony Corrente
  • TV announcers (Fox): Ron Pitts (play-by-play) and Tony Boselli (color commentator)
Game information

Trying to rebound from their road loss to the Vikings, the Falcons went to Jacksonville Municipal Stadium for a Week 2 interconference fight with the Jacksonville Jaguars. After a scoreless first quarter, Atlanta trailed early as Jaguars kicker John Carney got a 35-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Falcons had their only score of the game as RB Warrick Dunn got a 4-yard TD run. After a scoreless third quarter, Jacksonville sealed the win with QB David Garrard's 14-yard TD pass to WR Reggie Williams and Carney's 27-yard field goal.

With the loss, the Falcons fell to 0–2.

Week 3: vs. Carolina Panthers

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Panthers 0 10 14327
Falcons 0 10 7320

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

  • Game time: 4:15 p.m. EDT
  • Game weather: Game played indoors (Domed stadium)
  • Game attendance: 68,175
  • Referee: Larry Nemmers
  • TV announcers (Fox): Ron Pitts (play-by-play) and Tony Boselli (color commentator)
Game information
  • Q2 – CAR – 10:53 – John Kasay 45-yard FG (CAR 3–0)
  • Q2 – ATL – 9:19 – 69-yard TD pass from Joey Harrington to Roddy White (Andersen kick) (ATL 7–3)
  • Q2 – CAR – 4:32 – 13-yard TD pass from Jake Delhomme to DeShaun Foster (Kasay kick) (CAR 10–7)
  • Q2 – ATL – 0:11 – Morten Andersen 24-yard FG (10–10)
  • Q3 – ATL – 9:09 – 13 yd TD pass from Joey Harrington to Alge Crumpler (Andersen kick) (ATL 17–10)
  • Q3 – CAR – 7:13 – 5 yd TD pass from Jake Delhomme to Jeff King (Kasay kick) (17–17)
  • Q3 – CAR – 0:47 – DeShaun Foster 10-yard TD run (Kasay kick) (CAR 24–17)
  • Q4 – CAR – 7:36 – John Kasay 49-yard FG (CAR 27–17)
  • Q4 – ATL – 3:03 – Morten Andersen 25-yard FG (CAR 27–20)

Trying to avoid their first 0–3 start since 1999, the Falcons played their Week 3 home opener against their divisional rival, the Carolina Panthers. After a scoreless first quarter, Atlanta trailed early as Panthers kicker John Kasay got a 45-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Falcons took the lead with QB Joey Harrington completing a 69-yard TD pass to WR Roddy White. However, Carolina retook the lead with QB Jake Delhomme completing a 13-yard TD pass to RB DeShaun Foster. Atlanta tied the game prior to halftime with kicker Morten Andersen getting a 24-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, the Falcons regained the lead with Harrington completing a 13-yard TD pass to TE Alge Crumpler, yet the Panthers regained the lead with Delhomme completing a 5-yard TD pass to TE Jeff King, along with Foster's 10-yard TD run. In the fourth quarter, Carolina ended its scoring with Kasay kicking a 49-yard field goal. Atlanta tried to mount a comeback, yet the only score was Andersen's 25-yard field goal.

With the loss, the Falcons fell to 0–3.

Week 4: vs. Houston Texans

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Texans 7 3 3316
Falcons 10 10 3326

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

Game information
  • Q1 – ATL – 8:14 – Morten Andersen 28-yard FG (ATL 3–0)
  • Q1 – HOU – 5:34 – 35-yard TD pass from Matt Schaub to André Davis (Brown kick) (HOU 7–3)
  • Q1 – ATL – 1:13 – 5-yard TD pass from Joey Harrington to Michael Jenkins (Andersen kick) (ATL 10–7)
  • Q2 – ATL – 8:22 – 7-yard TD pass from Joey Harrington to Michael Jenkins (Andersen kick) (ATL 17–7)
  • Q2 – ATL – 1:52 – Morten Andersen 22-yard FG (ATL 20–7)
  • Q2 – HOU – 0:05 – Kris Brown 42-yard FG (ATL 20–10)
  • Q3 – HOU – 10:13 – Kris Brown 37-yard FG (ATL 20–13)
  • Q3 – ATL – 4:00 – Morten Andersen 36-yard FG (ATL 23–13)
  • Q4 – HOU – 14:52 – Kris Brown 19-yard FG (ATL 23–16)
  • Q4 – ATL – 8:16 – Morten Andersen 46-yard FG (ATL 26–16)

Still searching for their first win of the year, the Falcons stayed at home for an interconference duel with the Houston Texans, featuring a former teammate in QB Matt Schaub. In the first quarter, Atlanta delivered the first punch with kicker Morten Andersen getting a 28-yard field goal. However, the Texans took the lead with Schaub completing a 35-yard TD pass to WR André Davis. The Falcons regained the lead with QB Joey Harrington completing a 5-yard TD pass to WR Michael Jenkins. In the second quarter, Harrington and Jenkins hooked up with each other again on a 7-yard TD pass. Also, Andersen contributed to Atlanta's cause by kicking a 22-yard field goal. Houston ended the half with kicker Kris Brown getting a 42-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, the Texans drew close with Brown kicking a 37-yard field goal. The Falcons responded with Andersen getting a 36-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Houston tried to retaliate with Brown kicking a 19-yard field goal. Again, Atlanta answered with Andersen nailing a 46-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Falcons held on to give head coach Bobby Petrino his first NFL victory.

With the win, the Falcons snapped a six-game losing skid and improved to 1–3.

Week 5: at Tennessee Titans

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Falcons 7 3 3013
Titans 7 3 10020

at LP Field, Nashville, Tennessee

  • Game time: 1:00 p.m. EDT
  • Game weather: 84 °F or 28.9 °C (sunny)
  • Game attendance: 69,143
  • Referee: Jerome Boger
  • TV announcers (Fox): Ron Pitts (play-by-play) and Tony Boselli (color commentator)
Game information
  • Q1 – ATL – 10:00 – DeAngelo Hall 56-yard TD fumble return (Andersen kick) (ATL 7–0)
  • Q1 – TEN – 6:15 – Chris Brown (Bironas kick) (7–7)
  • Q2 – ATL – 11:15 – Morten Andersen 32-yard FG (ATL 10–7)
  • Q2 – TEN – 0:00 – Rob Bironas 30-yard FG (10–10)
  • Q3 – ATL – 10:08 – Morten Andersen 28-yard FG (ATL 13–10)
  • Q3 – TEN – 6:56 – Rob Bironas 40-yard FG (13–13)
  • Q3 – TEN – 1:00 – Vincent Fuller 76-yard TD interception return (Bironas kick) (TEN 20–13)

Coming off their home win over the Texans, the Falcons flew to LP Field for a Week 5 interconference duel with the Tennessee Titans. In the first quarter, Atlanta got off to a fast start as CB DeAngelo Hall returned a LenDale White fumble 56 yards for a touchdown. The Titans tied the game with RB Chris Brown getting a 3-yard TD run. In the second quarter, the Falcons regained the lead with kicker Morten Andersen getting a 32-yard field goal. Tennessee ended the half with kicker Rob Bironas getting a 30-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, Atlanta got their lead back with Andersen kicking a 28-yard field goal. However, the Titans took the lead with Bironas nailing a 40-yard field goal, along with DB Vincent Fuller intercepting QB Joey Harrington and returning it 76 yards for a touchdown. In the fourth quarter, with Harrington being ineffective (16/31 for 87 yards and 1 interception), back-up QB Byron Leftwich came to try to lead the Falcons to victory. Near the end of the game, Atlanta came close (at Tennessee's 1-yard line). On four-straight plays, they were held out of the end zone, with Albert Haynesworth making a leaping tackle of Warrick Dunn in the backfield after hurdling an offensive lineman.

With the loss, not only did the Falcons fall to 1–4, but it also marked their fifth straight loss to the Titans.

Week 6: vs New York Giants

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Giants 14 7 01031
Falcons 10 0 0010

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

Game information

Hoping to rebound from their road loss to the Titans, the Falcons came home for Monday Night Football has they hosted the New York Giants. In the first quarter, Atlanta took flight early as kicker Morten Andersen got a 47-yard field goal. However, the Giants responded with QB Eli Manning completing a 5-yard TD pass to WR Amani Toomer. The Falcons answered with RB Jerious Norwood getting a 67-yard TD run. Afterwards, New York replied with RB Reuben Droughns getting a 1-yard TD run. In the second quarter, Atlanta's struggles continued as Manning completed a 43-yard TD pass to WR Plaxico Burress to increase the Giants' lead. After a scoreless third quarter, New York sealed the win with kicker Lawrence Tynes nailing a 32-yard field goal, while RB Derrick Ward got a 9-yard TD run.

With their second-straight loss, the Falcons fell to 1–5.

Week 7: at New Orleans Saints

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Falcons 3 10 0316
Saints 7 0 7822

at Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana

Game information

Trying to snap a two-game skid, the Falcons flew to the Louisiana Superdome for a Week 7 divisional duel with the New Orleans Saints. Due to QB Joey Harrington's ineffectiveness from last week's loss to the Giants, QB Byron Leftwich was given the start.

In the first quarter, Atlanta trailed early as Saints QB Drew Brees completed a 37-yard TD pass to WR Devery Henderson. The Falcons responded with former Saints kicker Morten Andersen's 38-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Atlanta began to play well as Andersen got a 33-yard field goal, while Leftwich completed a 9-yard TD pass to WR Roddy White.

In the third quarter, New Orleans retook the lead with RB Pierre Thomas getting a 24-yard TD run. On the Falcons' next possession, Leftwich's left leg got injured during a sack by Saints DE Will Smith. Harrington took over for the rest of the game. In the fourth quarter, Andersen gave Atlanta a 21-yard field goal. The Saints sealed the win with Brees hooking up with RB Reggie Bush on a 4-yard TD pass, along with Bush's 2-point conversion run.

With their third-straight loss, the Falcons entered their bye week at 1–6.

Week 9: vs. San Francisco 49ers

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
49ers 7 0 6316
Falcons 7 7 0620

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

Game information
  • Q1 – SF – 9:10 – Maurice Hicks 37-yard TD run (Joe Nedney kick) (SF 7–0)
  • Q1 – ATL – 4:49 – Warrick Dunn 9-yard TD run (Morten Andersen kick) (7–7)
  • Q2 – ATL – 3:48 – Ovie Mughelli 1-yard TD run (ATL 14–7)
  • Q3 – SF – 12:08 – Joe Nedney 49-yard FG (ATL 14–10)
  • Q3 – SF – 7:54 – Joe Nedney 32-yard FG (ATL 14–13)
  • Q4 – ATL – 10:19 – Morten Andersen 33-yard FG (ATL 17–13)
  • Q4 – NO – 7:56 – Joe Nedney 22-yard FG (ATL 17–16)
  • Q4 – ATL – 1:10 – Morten Andersen 27-yard FG (ATL 20–16)

Trying to snap a three-game skid, the Falcons went home and played a Week 9 intraconference duel with the San Francisco 49ers. In the first quarter, Atlanta trailed early as 49ers RB Maurice Hicks got a 9-yard TD run. The Falcons responded with RB Warrick Dunn getting a 9-yard TD run. In the second quarter, Atlanta increased its lead with RB Ovie Mughelli getting a 1-yard TD run for the only score of the period.

In the third quarter, San Francisco crept close as kicker Joe Nedney got a 49-yard and a 32-yard field goal. Fortunately, in the fourth quarter, the Falcons answered with kicker Morten Andersen getting a 33-yard field goal. The 49ers responded with Nedney kicking a 22-yard field goal, yet Atlanta got the win with Andersen nailing a 27-yard field goal.

With the win, the Falcons improved to 2–6.

The struggling Falcons rushing attack had its best performance (to date) with 155 total rushing yards.

Week 10: at Carolina Panthers

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Falcons 7 0 31020
Panthers 0 10 0313

at Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, North Carolina

  • Game time: 1:00 p.m. EST
  • Game weather: 63 °F or 17.2 °C (Sunny)
  • Game attendance: 73,340
  • Referee: Terry McAulay
  • TV announcers (Fox): Chris Rose (play-by-play) and Terry Donahue (color commentator)
Game information
  • Q1 – ATL – 8:43 – Warrick Dunn 30-yard TD run (Morten Andersen kick) (7–0 ATL)
  • Q2 – CAR – 4:20 – Ken Lucas 27-yard TD fumble return (John Kasay kick) (7–7)
  • Q2 – CAR – 0:00 – John Kasay 29-yard FG (CAR 10–7)
  • Q3 – ATL – 3:24 – Morten Andersen 36-yard FG (10–10)
  • Q4 – ATL – 11:35 – Morten Andersen 47-yard FG (ATL 13–10)
  • Q4 – CAR – 7:56 – John Kasay 31-yard FG (13–13)
  • Q4 – ATL – 0:20 – Alge Crumpler 30-yard TD pass from Joey Harrington (20–13)

Coming off their home win over the 49ers, the Falcons flew to Bank of America Stadium for an NFC South rematch with the Carolina Panthers. In the first quarter, Atlanta took flight as RB Warrick Dunn got a 30-yard TD run for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, the Panthers took the lead as CB Ken Lucas returned a fumble 27 yards for a touchdown, while kicker John Kasay managed to get a 29-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, the Falcons tied the game with kicker Morten Andersen getting a 36-yard field goal for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, Atlanta took the lead with Andersen kicking a 47-yard field goal. Carolina tied the game with Kasay nailing a 31-yard field goal. Fortunately, the Falcons got the win with QB Joey Harrington completing a 30-yard TD pass to TE Alge Crumpler.

With the win, Atlanta improved to 3–6.

Week 11: vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Buccaneers 7 7 10731
Falcons 0 0 077

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

Game information

Coming off their divisional road win over the Panthers, the Falcons went home a Week 11 divisional duel with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Despite QB Joey Harrington giving Atlanta two-straight wins, QB Byron Leftwich was given the start.

In the first quarter, the Falcons trailed early as Buccaneers QB Jeff Garcia completed a 44-yard TD pass to WR Joey Galloway for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, Atlanta continued to trail as Tampa Bay CB Ronde Barber returned a fumble 41 yards for a touchdown. In the third quarter, the Buccaneers continued their beatdown with kicker Matt Bryant nailing a 23-yard field goal, while Garcia completed a 21-yard TD pass to TE Alex Smith. In the fourth quarter, Tampa Bay sealed the win with RB Earnest Graham getting a 26-yard TD run. The Falcons avoided the shutout as Harrington came onto the field and completed a 7-yard TD pass to WR Adam Jennings.

With the loss, Atlanta fell to 3–7.

Week 12: vs. Indianapolis Colts

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Colts 0 21 10031
Falcons 10 3 0013

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

Game information
  • Q1 – ATL – 6:59 – Morten Andersen 34-yard FG (ATL 3–0)
  • Q1 – ATL – 3:44 – Roddy White 48-yard TD pass from Joey Harrington (Andersen kick) (ATL 10–0)
  • Q2 – IND – 14:42 – Reggie Wayne 23-yard TD pass from Peyton Manning (Vinatieri kick) (ATL 10–7)
  • Q2 – ATL – 11:35 – Morten Andersen 30-yard FG (ATL 13–7)
  • Q2 – IND – 6:45 – Dallas Clark 8-yard TD pass from Peyton Manning (Vinatieri kick) (IND 14–13)
  • Q2 – IND – 2:38 – Ben Utecht 5-yard TD pass from Peyton Manning (Vinatieri kick) (IND 21–13)
  • Q3 – IND – 5:05 – Joseph Addai 4-yard TD pass run (Vinatieri kick) (IND 28–13)
  • Q3 – IND – 0:32 – Adam Vinatieri 24-yard FG (IND 31–13)

Hoping to rebound from their divisional loss to the Buccaneers, the Falcons stayed at home and played a Week 12 Thanksgiving interconference duel with the defending Super Bowl champion Indianapolis Colts. In the first quarter, Atlanta led early as they ended a 19-play, 63-yard drive with kicker Morten Andersen's 34-yard field goal. Later, the Falcons increased their lead with QB Joey Harrington completing a 48-yard TD pass to WR Roddy White. In the second quarter, the Colts got on the board with QB Peyton Manning completing a 23-yard TD pass to WR Reggie Wayne. Atlanta responded with Andersen kicking a 30-yard field goal, but Indianapolis started to gain steam as Manning found TE Dallas Clark on an 8-yard TD pass and TE Ben Utecht on a 5-yard TD pass.

In the third quarter, Colts' RB Joseph Addai got a 4-yard TD run, while kicker Adam Vinatieri nailed a 24-yard field goal.

With the loss, the Falcons fell to 3–8.

Despite the loss, RB Warrick Dunn (17 carries for 70 yards) became the 22nd player in NFL history to get 10,000 career rushing yards. He became the third RB under 5 feet, 9 inches to reach 10,000 yards rushing.

Week 13: at St. Louis Rams

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Falcons 0 0 31316
Rams 14 7 0728

at Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis, Missouri

Game information
  • Q1 – STL – 9:40 – Randy McMichael 1-yard TD pass from Gus Frerotte (Jeff Wilkins kick) (STL 7–0)
  • Q1 – STL – 3:38 – Torry Holt 31-yard TD pass from Gus Frerotte (Wilkins kick) (STL 14–0)
  • Q2 – STL – 1:55 – Isaac Bruce 8-yard TD pass from Gus Frerotte (Wilkins kick) (STL 21–0)
  • Q3 – ATL – 8:24 – Morten Andersen 41-yard FG (STL 21–3)
  • Q4 – ATL – 11:48 – Roddy White 15-yard TD pass from Chris Redman (Redman pass failed) (STL 21–9)
  • Q4 – ATL – 7:17 – Michael Jenkins 5-yard TD pass from Chris Redman (Andersen kick) (STL 21–16)
  • Q4 – STL – 1:17 – Steven Jackson 50-yard TD pass run (Wilkins kick) (STL 28–17)

Trying to snap a two-game losing skid, the Falcons flew to the Edward Jones Dome for a Week 13 intraconference duel with the St. Louis Rams. In the first quarter, Atlanta trailed early as Rams QB Gus Frerotte completed a 1-yard TD pass to TE Randy McMichael, along with a 31-yard TD pass to WR Torry Holt. In the second quarter, St. Louis increased its lead with Frerotte completing an 8-yard TD pass to WR Isaac Bruce for the only score of the period.

In the third quarter, the Falcons got on the board as kicker Morten Andersen kicked a 41-yard field goal for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, Atlanta tried to come back as QB Chris Redman completed a 15-yard TD pass to WR Roddy White, along with a 5-yard TD pass to WR Michael Jenkins. However, the Rams sealed the win with RB Steven Jackson scoring on a 50-yard TD run.

With their third-straight loss, the Falcons fell to 3–9.

Week 14: vs. New Orleans Saints

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Saints 7 10 14334
Falcons 7 0 0714

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

Game information
  • Q1 – NO – 3:18 – David Patten 25-yard TD pass from Drew Brees (Olindo Mare kick) (NO 7-0)
  • Q1 – ATL – 1:22 – Roddy White 33-yard TD pass from Chris Redman (Morten Andersen kick) (7–7)
  • Q2 – NO – 10:41 – Olindo Mare 23-yard FG (NO 10–7)
  • Q2 – NO – 1:06 – Marques Colston 15-yard TD pass from Drew Brees (Mare kick) (NO 17–7)
  • Q3 – NO – 9:13 – Marques Colston 2-yard TD pass from Drew Brees (Mare kick) (NO 24–7)
  • Q3 – NO – 8:30 – Roman Harper 31-yard TD interception return (Mare kick) (NO 31–7)
  • Q4 – ATL – 8:52 – Michael Jenkins 13-yard TD pass from Chris Redman (Andersen kick) (NO 31–14)
  • Q4 – NO – 2:48 – Olindo Mare 36-yard FG (NO 34–14)

Trying to snap a three-game slide, the Falcons went home for a Week 14 Monday Night NFC South rematch with the New Orleans Saints. Making his first start at QB since 2002 was Chris Redman.

In the first quarter, Atlanta trailed early as Saints QB Drew Brees completed a 25-yard TD pass to WR David Patten. The Falcons answered with Redman completing a 33-yard TD pass to WR Roddy White. In the second quarter, New Orleans began to pull away as kicker Olindo Mare made a 23-yard field goal, while Brees completed a 15-yard TD pass to WR Marques Colston.

In the third quarter, the Saints pulled away as Brees and Colston hooked up with each other again on a 2-yard TD pass, while safety Roman Harper returned an interception 31 yards for a touchdown. In the fourth quarter, Atlanta got one last touchdown and Redman completed a 13-yard TD pass to WR Michael Jenkins. New Orleans sealed the win with Mare's 36-yard field goal.

With their fourth-straight loss, the Falcons fell to 3–10.

Following the game, it was announced that head coach Bobby Petrino had resigned from the Falcons.[7] Afterwards, on Wednesday, December 12, it was announced that defensive backs coach Emmitt Thomas would be Atlanta's interim head coach for the rest of the season.[8]

Week 15: at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Falcons 3 0 003
Buccaneers 14 13 3737

at Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida

Game information
  • Q1 – TB – 14:00 – Ronde Barber, 29 yd interception return (Matt Bryant kick) (TB 7–0)
  • Q1 – ATL – 6:32 – Morten Andersen, 33 yd field goal (TB 7–3)
  • Q1 – TB – 6:19 – Micheal Spurlock, 90 yd kick return (Matt Bryant kick) (TB 14–3)
  • Q2 – TB – 11:24 – Matt Bryant, 33 yd field goal 11:24 (TB 17–3)
  • Q2 – TB – 4:09 – Earnest Graham, 1 yd run (Matt Bryant kick) (TB 24–3)
  • Q2 – TB – 0:00 – Matt Bryant, 28 yd field goal (TB 27–3)
  • Q3 – TB – 4:08 – Matt Bryant, 34 yd field goal (TB 30–3)
  • Q4 – TB – 7:42 – Anthony Becht, 1 yd pass from Jeff Garcia (Matt Bryant kick) (TB 37–3)

Trying to snap a four-game skid, the Falcons flew to Raymond James Stadium for a Week 15 NFC South rematch with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In the first quarter, Atlanta trailed early as Buccaneers CB Ronde Barber returned an interception 29 yards for a touchdown. The Falcons responded with kicker Morten Andersen getting a 33-yard field goal for their only score of the game. However, Tampa Bay immediately responded with WR Micheal Spurlock returning a kickoff 90 yards for a touchdown (the Buccaneers' first kickoff return for a touchdown in franchise history). In the second quarter, the Falcons' year-long struggles continued as kicker Matt Bryant made a 33-yard field goal, RB Earnest Graham getting a 1-yard TD run, and Bryant kicking a 28-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, Atlanta's turmoil continued with Bryant nailing a 34-yard field goal for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, Tampa Bay sealed the win with QB Jeff Garcia completing a 1-yard TD pass to TE Anthony Becht.

With their fifth-straight loss, the Falcons fell to 3–11.

Week 16: at Arizona Cardinals

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34OTTotal
Falcons 7 7 013027
Cardinals 7 17 03330

at University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, Arizona

  • Game time: 4:05 p.m. EST
  • TV announcers (Fox): Ron Pitts (play-by-play) and Tony Boselli (color commentator)

Week 17: vs. Seattle Seahawks

[edit]
Quarter 1 2 34Total
Seahawks 7 10 101441
Falcons 0 17 32444

at Georgia Dome, Atlanta, Georgia

  • Game time: 1:00 p.m. EST
  • Game weather: Game played indoors (domed stadium)
  • TV announcers (Fox): Chris Myers (play-by-play) and Jason Sehorn (color commentator)

The Falcons salvaged one final win from the wreckage of their 2007 season in a 44-41 win over the playoff-bound Seahawks. The game lead tied or changed eight times in the first 47 minutes of game time until with his team now up 34-27 Chris Crocker picked off Seneca Wallace; from there Chris Redman completed his fourth touchdown of the game (it was Roddy White’s only score of the game). Despite two more Seahawks scores Morten Andersen’s 32-yard kick with 3:26 to go iced a 44-41 Falcons win. This was the final kick of Andersen’s 26-year career dating back to 1982.

Standings

[edit]
NFC South
W L T PCT DIV CONF PF PA STK
(4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers 9 7 0 .563 5–1 8–4 334 270 L2
Carolina Panthers 7 9 0 .438 3–3 7–5 267 347 W1
New Orleans Saints 7 9 0 .438 3–3 6–6 379 388 L2
Atlanta Falcons 4 12 0 .250 1–5 3–9 259 414 W1

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Maske, Mark (July 18, 2007). "Falcons' Vick Indicted In Dogfighting Case". The Washington Post. Retrieved December 9, 2012.
  2. ^ Glier, Ray (December 13, 2007). "Short, Unhappy Union of Petrino and Falcons Reaches a Bitter End". The New York Times. Retrieved April 10, 2017.
  3. ^ "Bitter Falcons feel betrayed after Petrino bolts for Arkansas". NFL.com. December 12, 2007. Retrieved January 22, 2022.
  4. ^ RFA: Restricted free-agent, UFA: Unrestricted free-agent, ERFA: Exclusive rights free agent
  5. ^ Pasquarelli, Len (March 22, 2007). "Falcons agree to deal backup QB Schaub to Houston". ESPN.com. Archived from the original on March 28, 2007. Retrieved March 26, 2007.
  6. ^ "2007 Atlanta Falcons Draftees". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved December 19, 2013.
  7. ^ "FOX Sports on MSN - COLLEGE FOOTBALL - Petrino leaves Falcons, will coach Arkansas". Archived from the original on December 14, 2007. Retrieved December 12, 2007.
  8. ^ "Emmitt Thomas to be Falcons interim coach - USATODAY.com". usatoday30.usatoday.com.
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