Falcons 20 Titans 6

The Atlanta Falcons improved to 2-1 in the pre-season on Saturday night with a 20-6 win over the Tennessee Titans. Like the last game, the contest was not televised where I live, so my commentary will be limited.

From what I've read, only good things can be taken from and said about this game, from a Falcons' fan's perspective anyway.

First off, Tennessee only put up 6 points. It being the 3rd of four pre-season games, starters received more playing time than they had in the first two contests, so that six on the scoreboard by way of two field goals is a welcome sight, especially after allowing 38 to Green Bay (although, the back-ups did allow the majority). More good news on the defensive side of the ball is the fact that Atlanta has recently come to terms with veteran run-stopping defensive tackle Grady Jackson, who was released by the before-mentioned Packers. Jackson is a piece of the puzzle that the Falcons sorely needed last season and will be a marvelous fit alongside fellow d-tackle Rod Coleman and ends Jonathan Abraham and Patrick Kerney. Jackson and the newly acquired Ashley Lelie did not play last night, however.

On the offensive side of the ball, Michael Vick was average, but efficient in throwing the ball, completing 7 of 14 passes, with one touchdown toss to Michael Jenkins. He also ran the ball three times for over thirty yards. All the receivers got into the action, but no one stood out from the rest. The real stand-out on offense was rookie tailback Jerious Norwood, who had a 60-yard touchdown run and over 100 yards overall in the game for the Falcons. That trade with Washington is looking better and better by the game with Norwood's efforts.

Atlanta's special team's performance had to bring the biggest smile to my face. Kicker Michael Koenen made another field goal and is now 7 for 7 in the pre-season. All I can say is, he's made a believer out of me, so I certainly hope he's done the same for the Falcons' coaching staff. He also punted the ball real wall. On top of that, the speedy, yet injury-nagged return man from a season ago, Allen Rossum, broke one for almost 50 yards last night. He's also run one back for over 30 in another pre-season game. Rossum wasn't himself a year ago, mainly due to nagging injuries, so this is a great sign.

The only injury to make note about is tight end Alge Crumpler, but coaches say it is minor. He's coming off surgery in the off-season, so I'm guessing that he just irritated his knee some. Hopefully he's fully ready by the time the season starts.