NFL Championship Round

[Abe Sargent]

San Fran vs Atlanta


and



New England vs Baltimore



Allons-y!

[albionmoonlight]

As Bill Simmons keeps saying, Baltimore is a bad match-up for the Pats b/c Baltimore does not fear them. But New England does not keep winning because other teams are afraid of them. They keep winning because they have the best coach in the league and a lot of talent. I think that they will keep rolling.

NFC Championship will be closer than people think. Atlanta might not be a juggernaut. But they are a good team with a really good coach. They can put points on the board quickly. Should be a good game.

[Alan T]

I think San Francisco is a heck of a team, and one that Atlanta's defense matches up poorly against. Atlanta seems to do better against traditional passing QBs (Peyton and Eli Manning, Brees, Romo, etc) than they did this year against mobile threats.

The fact that I spent all of my child hood watching the 49ers destroy the Falcons twice every year though makes me want this win so badly... I guess I am not going into this game confident, but man I'll re-suffer all of my PTSD from childhood NFL if they lose this one to the 49ers.

[DougW]

Atlanta seems to do better against traditional passing QBs (Peyton and Eli Manning, Brees, Romo, etc) than they did this year against mobile threats.

Based on what ?

Their 3 losses this year were splits with Carolina, Tampa, and New Orleans.

[Alan T]

Based on what ?

Their 3 losses this year were splits with Carolina, Tampa, and New Orleans.

Based on my non-scientific non-stats just watching the game I guess? :) They struggled both times they played Cam Newton, they barely beat Washington and RG 3, and probably only because RG 3 got hurt in that game and didn't finish it due to concussion. We saw it this weekend vs Seattle too.. when the other team has a pretty mobile quarterback, it seemed that posed alot of threat against them.

Of course I hope I am wrong about that.. but I guess almost 40 years of watching the Falcons has made me a pessimist :)

[Logan]

The Niners will win this one for Garrison Hearst.

[bbor]

GO NINERS!!!!!

[Abe Sargent]

i want Falcons and Ravens in SB. I'm happy with 49ers Ravens in Bowl. If either Falcons or 49ers makes in in but the Ravens do not, please STOMP the Patriots. That is all.

[Coffee Warlord]

Don't care too much, but still pulling for Niners. Niners-Pats would be most entertaining.

[Ron Mexico]

Can't help but feel this is '98 all over again for the Falcons. The Bryant kick the inverse of the Gary Anderson miss. I know that was the NFC title game and this was the a round earlier, but still. While San Fran is going to be a tough matchup, I think the team is as relaxed as they're ever going to be now and will turn the Georgia Dome into the advantage it is during the regular season.

Only fear with the '98 parallel-- running into this generation's Elway. Except Brady might actually be better.

At least there's some solace in Matt Ryan over Chris Chandler.

[flounder]

The Niners will win this one for Garrison Hearst.

The Falcons will win this one for Charles Dimry.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I think that the 49ers versus the Patriots will make the best Super Bowl, so as a fan of none of these teams I guess that's what I'd like to see.

Though, I guess it would be nice for Atlanta fans to have the Falcons win a Super Bowl, since that's never happened.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Though, I guess it would be nice for Atlanta fans to have the Falcons win a Super Bowl, since that's never happened.

That doesn't seem likely to happen regardless of the outcome of the NFC Championship ... unless of course the Ravens pull out an upset.

[mckerney]

I don't care who wins as long as it's Tom Brady.

[Maple Leafs]

Any other 49er fans waiting for Alex Smith's inevitable Drew Bledsoe moment, when he has to come in late to win a game after Kapernick gets hurt? Like, is that a 100% lock right now or just 95%?

[stevew]

Which Falcons player would have hooker problems this time? I'd probably wager on Jacquizz Rodgers.

Also I love that I couldn't name the Falcons #2 QB regardless of the odds.

[stevew]

Also-

Falcons draft Lattimore in the late first and make due for a year with Rodgers/someone like DeAngelo Williams?

[britrock88]

Also I love that I couldn't name the Falcons #2 QB regardless of the odds.

Chris Chandler, I'm pretty sure.

:p

[RainMaker]

It's kind of nice not caring who wins each game and just going into it as a completely neutral observer. Both games sound like they could be great and am really looking forward to Sunday.

[stevew]

Chris Chandler, I'm pretty sure.

:p

I was thinking Chris Redmond.

[Ron Mexico]

Which Falcons player would have hooker problems this time? I'd probably wager on Jacquizz Rodgers.

Also I love that I couldn't name the Falcons #2 QB regardless of the odds.

Isn't it McCown? Think so. Essentially it's a loss.

And my money would be on Asante Samuel-- even stays in the secondary for the parallel.

[stevew]

Hmmm. Samuel was almost my choice.

Bigger sibling conventional to bizarre name difference between James/Jacquizz Rodgers?

[Logan]

Hmmm. Samuel was almost my choice.

Bigger sibling conventional to bizarre name difference between James/Jacquizz Rodgers?

I'd need to hear D'Brickashaw Ferguson's siblings names to validate that.

[stevew]

I'd laugh if his brother is named "Dave"

[Suburban Rhythm]

Which Falcons player would have hooker problems this time? I'd probably wager on Jacquizz Rodgers.

Also I love that I couldn't name the Falcons #2 QB regardless of the odds.

What about "Most likely to Tank Carter" the Super Bowl?

[Cap Ologist]

I'd need to hear D'Brickashaw Ferguson's siblings names to validate that.

I'd laugh if his brother is named "Dave"

I have a friend named Odom, his youngest brother is named Bran, the middle brother? Jim.

[mckerney]

I just hope whoever gets busted uses the Homer Simpson defense of, "I want to set the record straight, I thought the cop was a prostitute." (http://download.lardlad.com/sounds/season11/laughter18.mp3)

[mtolson]

I'd need to hear D'Brickashaw Ferguson's siblings names to validate that.

D'Brickashaw is the son of Rhunette and Edwin Ferguson ... has a brother, Edwin, Jr. My guess is that his mother named him cause I can't begin to pronounce that one.

[Logan]

Would be even better if Edwin is the younger brother:

"What the hell did we just do? Let's go Edwin Jr next time."

[Draft Dodger]

As a Pats fan and I'm nervous about the matchup, but I am looking forward to what should be one hell of a football game.

[Lathum]

I'll be in the car for both games. While bummed I wont be able to watch on TV it will occupy a large portion of an 11 hour car ride.

[BishopMVP]

I remember linking to a Boston Globe article earlier this season on the Patriots embrace of the no-huddle, but here's Chris Brown's take on it - How the terminology of the Erhardt-Perkins system has helped maintain the dominance of Tom Brady and the Patriots - Grantland (http://www.grantland.com/story/_/id/8849439/how-terminology-erhardt-perkins-system-helped-maintain-dominance-tom-brady-patriots)

[DanGarion]

The Niners will win this one for Garrison Hearst.

Not to mention Dexter Carter and Ricky Watters.

[JediKooter]

Not to mention Dexter Carter and Ricky Watters.

I hope they win it for Natrone Means and Stan Humphries.

[Buccaneer]

I remember linking to a Boston Globe article earlier this season on the Patriots embrace of the no-huddle, but here's Chris Brown's take on it - How the terminology of the Erhardt-Perkins system has helped maintain the dominance of Tom Brady and the Patriots - Grantland (http://www.grantland.com/story/_/id/8849439/how-terminology-erhardt-perkins-system-helped-maintain-dominance-tom-brady-patriots)

Thank you for the link. I sort assumed that they had a terminology for a series of plays but it sounds like the next play is quickly called at the line with one or two words. I have always loved watching Brady play and definitely want him and the Patriots to win it all. But it is interesting comparing him to Peyton Manning where, because of his brilliant mind, can go through all of the possible plays and call the best one, no matter how long it takes and how many gestures (which can be comical to watch). Tom leads like an unstoppable train while Peyton leads like a an animated professor. Then we have those QBs that can be only limited to a dozen plays (less in the case of Tebow) and lucky if they even know what one receiver (since that's all they see) should do, but that's another story. Go Patriots.

[kingfc22]

The Niners will win this one for Garrison Hearst.

This! :D

[BishopMVP]

Thank you for the link. I sort assumed that they had a terminology for a series of plays but it sounds like the next play is quickly called at the line with one or two words. I have always loved watching Brady play and definitely want him and the Patriots to win it all. But it is interesting comparing him to Peyton Manning where, because of his brilliant mind, can go through all of the possible plays and call the best one, no matter how long it takes and how many gestures (which can be comical to watch). Tom leads like an unstoppable train while Peyton leads like a an animated professor. Then we have those QBs that can be only limited to a dozen plays (less in the case of Tebow) and lucky if they even know what one receiver (since that's all they see) should do, but that's another story. Go Patriots.Here's the Globe article that goes a little more in-depth on some aspects (and brings in the Chip Kelly connection) Patriots no-huddle relies on power of one - Sports - The Boston Globe (http://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2012/10/08/patriots-huddle-relies-power-one/nHTapuVnBOwfFlffwTrN6J/story.html) , but I dislike the hook/intro to the story because the author is over-simplifying when he says they use 6 words to tell them everything - not only is that only in one package/personnel grouping (usually the Woodhead one), but there's also an alignment call and Brady often audibles at the line.

I think comparing his intelligence to a Tebow or Newton based off this is incorrect, because a lot of the work is done beforehand by the coaching staff during the week (and even the initial play call is radioed down by McDaniels). Brady does have, I believe, full autonomy to change the play direction and make the run/pass decision, but he's not choosing from a whole playbook - and I'm certainly not saying Brady is necessarily less intelligent than any of them - but he's got very few basic play-call options at his disposal. The key is using different personnel groupings to get mismatches (and then keeping the opposing defense on the field to continually take advantage of that mismatch for an entire series), and having versatile enough players on the field that we can effectively disguise the same play call by running it out of 4 or 5 different alignments. (Having 3 of the best players at "Choice" routes at their respective positions - Welker, Hernandez and Woodhead, certainly helps as well.)

My secret hope is that Beli sticks around after Brady and we end up with a mobile QB just to see where he would take the offense. Oh Michael Bishop, you came a dozen years too soon (and allegedly had a Wonderlic score of 8.)

[Matthean]

The dude went to Michigan people. It's not like he was asked to sit in the corner with a protective helmet and finger paint. :lol: This did make me go look up his Wonderlic score which was a 33. Manning had a 28.

[DaddyTorgo]

The dude went to Michigan people. It's not like he was asked to sit in the corner with a protective helmet and finger paint. :lol: This did make me go look up his Wonderlic score which was a 33. Manning had a 28.

I don't think anybody's saying Brady is stupid or couldn't handle a more complex offense or anything - are they?

[Matthean]

I don't think anybody's saying Brady is stupid or couldn't handle a more complex offense or anything - are they?

Just poking fun at the talk of QBs intelligence.

[albionmoonlight]

My secret hope is that Beli sticks around after Brady and we end up with a mobile QB just to see where he would take the offense. Oh Michael Bishop, you came a dozen years too soon (and allegedly had a Wonderlic score of 8.)

The Belichick/Kraft combo of coaching/roster management managed to get 11 wins with Cassell, so call that a floor. And seems to average 13 or so wins a season with Brady. I think that if you were to put, say, an Andrew Luck, or an Aaron Rogers in that system (i.e. has the ability to make plays with their legs), they would average over 45 points a game.

Brady gets an over-sized share of the credit, but it is really the New England system that's doing things that we've never seen before. And I think that that system actually does not get the credit that it deserves because everyone just thinks "Brady is awesome" without looking at the context in which he is playing.

[BishopMVP]

The Belichick/Kraft combo of coaching/roster management managed to get 11 wins with Cassell, so call that a floor. And seems to average 13 or so wins a season with Brady. I think that if you were to put, say, an Andrew Luck, or an Aaron Rogers in that system (i.e. has the ability to make plays with their legs), they would average over 45 points a game.

Brady gets an over-sized share of the credit, but it is really the New England system that's doing things that we've never seen before. And I think that that system actually does not get the credit that it deserves because everyone just thinks "Brady is awesome" without looking at the context in which he is playing.Case in point - guess what New England ranks in yards per play this year? 10th, yet they're easily #1 in PPG, yards and 1st downs (by a stunning 62 - 444 to #2 Detroit's 382). Part of that is due to style (the willingness to take 5 yards on any 1st/2nd down), but a lot is just due to tempo and the no-huddle. The other thing that Brady does incredibly well that doesn't get the recognition it deserves is preventing turnovers - despite running the most plays in the league we finished 2nd in TO's with only 16.

Btw, one thing I noticed when looking at stats is that only 8 teams had 18 or fewer turnovers - WSH, SF, NE, GB, BAL, HOU, SEA, ATL. No other team had fewer than 21. Maybe we're overthinking this game ;)

[Jacob Typer]

Go Atlanta!

[EagleFan]

Go niners, don't just beat them but crush them. Go Sherman on their asses and burn the whole city...

What? Too much?

:D

[stevew]

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Ean-vJCsAX4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Alan T]

I totally just played that entire video for my wife!

[kingfc22]

SFPD investigating Crabtree for an alleged sexual assault...

[RedKingGold]

Of course. . .

[stevew]

Michael Crapetree

[GrantDawg]

SFPD investigating Crabtree for an alleged sexual assault...


Man, that sabotage squad worked fast.

[Desnudo]

The important thing is that he's going to play

[GrantDawg]

The important thing is that he's going to play


But those guys I hired to stand on the sidelines in the FBI jackets might be distracting. :)

[RedKingGold]

If the 49ers win tomorrow, well, just hide yo kids, hide yo wife Atlanta.

[bbor]

If the 49ers win tomorrow, well, just hide yo kids, hide yo wife Atlanta.


IF???????

;)

[JonInMiddleGA]

A nice human interest story from today's Macon Telegraph about a 94 y/o man who pretty much has to be the most devoted Falcons fan ever.

EVERY GIVEN SUNDAY: The Man Who Lives for the Atlanta Falcons | Local & State | Macon.com (http://www.macon.com/2013/01/19/2322938/every-given-sunday-the-man-who.html)

[Desnudo]

IF???????

;)

I'm trying to visualize any scenario where the Falcons win and can't come up with one. Which probably means they'll win.

[RedKingGold]

IF???????

;)

I'm hoping. The 49ers have more talent, but that doesn't mean it'll necessarily show up today.

[Desnudo]

That's what we need - two sideline reporters

[Danny]

Was going to post that the way the falcons can win is roddy white and Julio jones, but doesn't look as good now since they already got a td.

[Matthean]

I'm trying to visualize any scenario where the Falcons win and can't come up with one. Which probably means they'll win.

49ers might have already played their best game of the playoffs and now they go on the road.

[kingfc22]

Atlanta is just going to keep on throwing and throwing.

[Desnudo]

Turner is very very slow

[RedKingGold]

Even the security guards are getting concussions.

[Desnudo]

49ers might have already played their best game of the playoffs and now they go on the road.

Death by Julio jones

[kingfc22]

Bring some pressure Fangio. They are not going to run.

[RedKingGold]

49ers are just getting no pressure on Ryan so far.

San Francisco needs a long drive just to give the defense a break.

[Matthean]

Death by Julio jones

And Atlanta got a lot of flack for the trade that brought him there.

[Vince, Pt. II]

This is about as poorly as it could have started for the 49ers. If Bowman doesn't break up that pass, the 49ers are basically done.

[BillJasper]

Kaepernick looks a little overwhelmed right now...

[Matthean]

Kaepernick looks a little overwhelmed right now...

There's a reason why QBs in their first two years generally don't make the SB.

[kingfc22]

Wow

[BillJasper]

Now its time to see if the Falcons can stay interested during the rest of the game.

[Desnudo]

SF needs to give up on the run and keep their safeties back

[Danny]

Julio jones' official coming out party

[RedKingGold]

This one ain't over yet, now the defense needs to step up and get a stop.

[kingfc22]

Okay. Now what will the Niners do on defense???

[cuervo72]

Song heading into commercial sounded like a Doctor Who takeoff.

[kingfc22]

Here we go now.

[BillJasper]

Now its time to see if the Falcons can stay interested during the rest of the game.

:lol:

[RedKingGold]

Nice response, now if we can just get another clock killing drive and some point, even a field goal, we'll be in business.

[kingfc22]

Nice response, now if we can just get another clock killing drive and some point, even a field goal, we'll be in business.

All I want is to be within 10 at the end of the half. A score here and we get the ball to start the 3rd would be ideal.

[kingfc22]

Keep running the ball. Dominant the line!

[RedKingGold]

So much for that Kaepernick looking overwhelmed idea.

[kingfc22]

Need a TD here to keep good ole mo on our side

[BillJasper]

So much for that Kaepernick looking overwhelmed idea.

Early on he was, you could tell. He's settled down and the Falcons decided they won when they went up 17-0.

[Desnudo]

Might want to have a player cover Davis at some point

[kingfc22]

Yes. We've got a ballgame

[RedKingGold]

Probably left too much time on the clock for Ryan to get 3 or 7, but even if that happens, at least it's a game again.

[kingfc22]

Defensive game plan needs to go in the shredder

[JonInMiddleGA]

Defensive game plan needs to go in the shredder

I think it's already been shredded

[Thomkal]

I see defense isn't going to be a factor in this game either...

[kingfc22]

And Atlanta answers right back.

[SirFozzie]

at least san fran gets the second half kickoff

[Abe Sargent]

Come on Falcons!

[Vince, Pt. II]

Aldon Smith needs to step up and show that his success isn't just because Justin Smith is occupying multiple people. He's been a non-factor since Justin Smith went out. If the 49ers can't get a pass rush, Ryan's going to do this all day.

Edit: Justin Smith is in there, but he's clearly not healthy.

[SirFozzie]

If I was San Fran, I'd be looking to dial up some ways to get pressure on Matt Ryan. This may be by sending extra rushers or whatever, but just saw this first half stat from ESPN Stats:

ESPN Stats and Info: Matt Ryan vs 4 or fewer rushers: 17-23, 258 yards, 3 TD

[Matthean]

The problem for San Fran was Seattle's issue. It's not scoring the points to get the lead but outscoring Atlanta by 11 in a half. It will be interesting to see Atlanta's play calling in the second half.

[jbergey22]

Alex Smith needs to come back and play QB so this 49ers defense can get some stops.

[kingfc22]

Randy actually looking to run after the catch rather than taking a dive.

[RedKingGold]

Dear Defense, please show up and do something k thanx.

[Desnudo]

54 is having a horrible game

[kingfc22]

Dear Defense, please show up and do something k thanx.

Time to see what Fangio changes up

[Vince, Pt. II]

Crazy as it sounds, I think this next drive is for the game. The 49ers need to stop Ryan.

[BillJasper]

Atlanta is a talented team, they just seem to lack "killer instinct" needed to put teams away.

[kingfc22]

Atlanta is a talented team, they just seem to lack "killer instinct" needed to put teams away.

Hoping they wait til nex year to find it then

[kingfc22]

Niners still only rushing 4. What the @$&$!!

[kingfc22]

HUGE!!!

[RedKingGold]

Finally.

[Matthean]

HUGE!!!

.

[kingfc22]

Think I mentioned it back in the week 15 thread...Akers is going to blow it for the Niners in the post season

[RedKingGold]

Fucking Akers.

[Danny]

Atlanta is a talented team, they just seem to lack "killer instinct" needed to put teams away.

I don't think this is the case. They have fantastic passing game talent, but the rest of the team is mediocre

[tucker rocky]

Akers with a timely miss.

[Danny]

Turners injury will help the team

[TroyF]

I love it when the announcers try to play something up with certain injuries. Michael Turner hurt? That HELPS the Falcons guys, not hurts them.

[kingfc22]

Big play coming up here on third down

[kingfc22]

Niners need to keep this a one score game.

[kingfc22]

Thank you very much!

[TroyF]

Holy crap, what a gut wrenching play for the Falcons.

[BillJasper]

What is wrong with Atlanta? Seems they piss themselves whenever they're in a position to take control of the game.

[jbergey22]

What is wrong with Atlanta? Seems they piss themselves whenever they're in a position to take control of the game.

Well last week you said the 49ers would crush them so atleast they are improved from that prediction.

[kingfc22]

You can only love the NFL when that call goes your team's way. Brutal.

[chadritt]

Kaepernick didnt even react...

[BillJasper]

Well last week you said the 49ers would crush them so atleast they are improved from that prediction.

I said they would likely crush them. :p

[JonInMiddleGA]

What is wrong with Atlanta? Seems they piss themselves whenever they're in a position to take control of the game.

Falconitis.

[tucker rocky]

Tacky penalty, incindental contact.

[Desnudo]

Falcons defense can't tackle

[jbergey22]

Play of the game by Dunta.

[Coffee Warlord]

Wow.

[Danny]

Heck of a game

[RedKingGold]

Ugh.

[TroyF]

That was a special play. Yeah, Crabtree needs to hold onto the ball, but that was one hell of a strip there.

[whomario]

this has gone from "well played and fun" to "really hilarious"

[kingfc22]

This game is ridiculous. Need a 3 and out

[TroyF]

Two QB's have combined for 36-49 passing for 537 yards and 4 TD.

[Glengoyne]

That was a special play. Yeah, Crabtree needs to hold onto the ball, but that was one hell of a strip there.


Big time

[Suburban Rhythm]

Tacky penalty, incindental contact.

As a casual observer with no dog in the fight, the most ridiculous part is that getting flagged, and one the same replay showing Boone headbutt an Atlanta defender.

Go ahead, call it by the book, Matthews touched the QBs helmet. Then call the personal foul against the OL too.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Two QB's have combined for 36-49 passing for 537 yards and 4 TD.

And only 7 points (thus far) in the second half, thanks to 3 turnovers and a missed FG between 'em.

[kingfc22]

And Ginn makes a positive play. Hurray!

[kingfc22]

Atlanta doing their best right now to give this game away. Niners saying no thanks thus far.

[Coffee Warlord]

How many chances are the Falcons gonna give 'em, here? Jeez.

[kingfc22]

Does Harbaugh go Akers if they are short here on 3rd down?

[kingfc22]

YES! YES! YES!

[tucker rocky]

Falcons giving up leads 2 weeks in a row now.

[Crapshoot]

Does Harbaugh go Akers if they are short here on 3rd down?

I'd be shocked if we see another FG attempt from the Niners this game.

[stevew]

You gotta wonder how much that Crapetree fumble will factor into the final score.

[Alan T]

This is such a predictable game. This is like every other falcons vs 49ers game since the beginning of history. Seriously we need to get some form of fundamentals back here and get momentum turned around.

[kingfc22]

Thought Jones was all alone there for a second.

[kingfc22]

You gotta wonder how much that Crapetree fumble will factor into the final score.

Factored in that scoring drive. Niners had great field position.

[Matthean]

Falcons giving up leads 2 weeks in a row now.

17+ point leads at that.

[kingfc22]

That's incomplete. Granted I'm biased but it looked clear.

[chadritt]

That shouldve been a touchdown, now it might not even be a catch. Ughhh

[BillJasper]

Not a catch by Douglass.

[jbergey22]

Wow that was a blown chance. That wont be called a catch. Hit the ground then he bobbled.

[tucker rocky]

Refs going under the hood, verdict upcoming.

[Glengoyne]

Wow that was a blown chance. That wont be called a catch. Hit the ground then he bobbled.

One would think.

[TroyF]

I think it's close, but they will likely rule it incomplete. What do the Falcons do. Go for it or punt?

The Niners are rolling on offense and they have a great running game, I don't think I give the ball back to the Niners here.

[jbergey22]

Wow. Hard to believe that was called a catch.

[kingfc22]

Unreal

[mckerney]

Horrible.

[Glengoyne]

I guess not

[Crapshoot]

That was absolutebullshit. The ball hit the ground.

[BillJasper]

Terrible call.

[RedKingGold]

Horrible.

[BillJasper]

NFL still doesn't know what a catch is.

[kingfc22]

So now you can trap the ball against the ground and it is called a catch. Wow.

[tucker rocky]

Refs doing what they do best.

[mckerney]

For next year the league needs to change the definition of a catch to whatever the ref decides on any given play.

[Suburban Rhythm]

The angle they showed one time seemed to show the ball hitting the ground. So FOX shows the other angle about 10 times...but not back to the good one.

[Danny]

While it was probably incomplete i did not see indesputablr evidence.

[EagleFan]

Refs seriously screwed up that call.

[Crapshoot]

That call may cost the 49ers a shot at the Super Bowl. Just awful.

[BillJasper]

For next year the league needs to change the definition of a catch to whatever the ref decides on any given play.

This.

[Danny]

The angle they showed one time seemed to show the ball hitting the ground. So FOX shows the other angle about 10 times...but not back to the good one.

Not sure I saw that angle but the one they showed over and over was not 100% clear in my mind

[EagleFan]

While it was probably incomplete i did not see indesputablr evidence.

That one angle clearly shows the ball on the ground at the point after it rolled out of his hand (which you see on the other angle).

[Desnudo]

That call may cost the 49ers a shot at the Super Bowl. Just awful.

The 49ers inability to stop the falcons offense may cost them a shot

[Vince, Pt. II]

That challenge should have been successful. Clearly incomplete.

That being said, the 49ers have to make a stop at some point.

[mckerney]

Factored in that scoring drive. Niners had great field position.

I don't think it factored in much scorewise to this point. Seeing as it may have just delayed a TD the impact it may have is how much time left for San Fran for a final drive if Atlanta scores here.

[Carman Bulldog]

I had that as an incomplete but I think that's a call that goes to whoever the home team is.

[tucker rocky]

Big play upcoming.

[Glengoyne]

I'm happy we don't have zero tolerance regarding a ball hitting the ground anymore, but there the receiver clearly didn't have complete control throughout the balls contact to the ground.

As usual Pereria is on the other side of the issue.

[tucker rocky]

Game over.

[Danny]

Wow 49ers win anyway

[RedKingGold]

Wowowowow

[Desnudo]

Crystal clear holding on that pass

[BillJasper]

That was close to mugging...

[chadritt]

I neither understand catches or interference anymore.

[Glengoyne]

That was close to mugging...

I know he nearly ran that linebacker over.

[BillJasper]

Niners out score the Falcons 28-7, after falling behind 17-0.

[tucker rocky]

I neither understand catches or interference anymore.
Neither do the refs.

[jbergey22]

I neither understand catches or interference anymore.

It changes after every game changing call.

The rule coming into this year was a player has to have control if the ball touches the ground. Clearly he bobbled after the ball hit the ground on this certain play.

[mckerney]

I don't think it factored in much scorewise to this point. Seeing as it may have just delayed a TD the impact it may have is how much time left for San Fran for a final drive if Atlanta scores here.

Or in this case how much they need to run of the clock.

[TroyF]

100% obvious holding on that play. Ball was in the air and his hands were on him. Horrible no call in that situation. On the other hand, you have to throw the ball past the first down marker there. Not a good play by the Falcons either.

Falcons play their cards right, they'll get a hail mary attempt at the end.

[Matthean]

Are the 49ers trying to give the ball back to Atlanta?

[kingfc22]

Come on Niners!

[tucker rocky]

Atlanta will get 1 last gasp though.

[RedKingGold]

If you're the 49ers, do you take a safety here?

[BillJasper]

Ryan will likely get one shot at the Hail Mary.

[tucker rocky]

Gore was close to busting one.

[BillJasper]

Maybe not...

[jbergey22]

If you're the 49ers, do you take a safety here?

No

IF you were up 6 or more, yes.

[RedKingGold]

I think you take the safety here. The two points is worth the gain in field position.

[mckerney]

It changes after every game changing call.

The rule coming into this year was a player has to have control if the ball touches the ground. Clearly he bobbled after the ball hit the ground on this certain play.

I don't get the "needs to have his hand inn the ball" standard Perreria was using. Sure his hand did leave the ball, but he only harass fingertips on it with it coming out of his control.

[TroyF]

If you're the 49ers, do you take a safety here?

Wouldn't be a bad play actually.

[tucker rocky]

If you're the 49ers, do you take a safety here?

Up only 4 points, absolutely not, given that Atlanta would only have to kick a FG and not score a TD.

[Glengoyne]

I think you take the safety here. The two points is worth the gain in field position.

But way less than the three points the falcons get with aFG.

[tucker rocky]

Now the game is over.

[EagleFan]

What kind of decision wasthat? 15-20 yards down the mddle with 6 seconds and no timeouts left.

[BillJasper]

Didn't understand that last play call. But then I haven't understood what the Falcons were trying to do since they went up 17-0.

[RedKingGold]

SUPER BOWL!!!!!!!!

[Suburban Rhythm]

http://i.imgur.com/dVHgK6N.gif

[BillJasper]

SUPER BOWL!!!!!!!!

Congrats Niner fans.

[Glengoyne]

I don't get the "needs to have his hand inn the ball" standard Perreria was using. Sure his hand did leave the ball, but he only harass fingertips on it with it coming out of his control.


Yeah if he had been in the air at that point the ball would have fallen to the ground.

[tucker rocky]

Atlanta looked destined as a SB lock, only to have the other team come into their home field, and knock them out.

[jbergey22]

Didn't understand that last play call. But then I haven't understood what the Falcons were trying to do since they went up 17-0.

He was suppose to lateral it to one of the two Falcons setting up behind him but he lost his balance.

[kingfc22]

Zero points allowed in the second half.

Back in the Super Bowl!!! WOOHOO!!!

Hell of a game

[Crapshoot]

Wow. Just wow. Now hoping for a 7-overtime Ravens / Patriots game.

[Matthean]

http://i.imgur.com/dVHgK6N.gif

49er coach no like call!! Harbaugh smash! - Twitter / micheleboyd: 49er coach no like call!! ... (https://twitter.com/micheleboyd/status/293129005111070720)

.

[Desnudo]

Those two unsportsmanlike penalties absolutely killed Atlanta today

[jeff061]

I'm such a huge Harbaugh fan, it's awesome what he's done with that team in 2 seasons. Very much reminds me of the early 2000 era Pats.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Crazy, crazy game. Either team could have won it.

Who does Atlanta lose next season? They make a couple additions on defense and they're going to be a crazy good team.

[RedKingGold]

Just told my fiancée that the next two weeks will be full of classic 49er footage on NFL Network.

She just threatened to jump out the window.

[Desnudo]

Crazy, crazy game. Either team could have won it.

Who does Atlanta lose next season? They make a couple additions on defense and they're going to be a crazy good team.

Gonzalez may retire

[chadritt]

Gonzalez may retire

I hope not. I know he said he would 100% retire if they won the super bowl but I hope he comes back for another shot.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Yeah, I'd have to imagine that if the team is anywhere near intact he comes back. He was probably the 2nd best TE in the league this season.

[BillJasper]

Yeah, I'd have to imagine that if the team is anywhere near intact he comes back. He was probably the 2nd best TE in the league this season.

I think Gonzalez is done.

[Crapshoot]

The Falcons are a good team. Give them a running game and a pass rusher next year...

[RedKingGold]

@richeisen: Harbaugh ghosts on the postgame ceremony. Not yet the one he wants to be part of yet. I love it. Just the way Bo would want it.

.

[jbergey22]

Cold and Windy around Boston it looks like. Maybe we will finally get to see some defense in the playoffs.

[kingfc22]

O/U on HarBowl mentions during this game?

[jbergey22]

O/U on HarBowl mentions during this game?

5.5

[stevew]

It's gotta be amazing to get to go to the Conference championship and get to coach against Mike Smith.

[Crapshoot]

5.5

You mean in the 1st quarter?

[Desnudo]

You mean in the 1st quarter?

1st minute

[DaddyTorgo]

Well that's 1 before the game even starts

[chadritt]

I think Gonzalez is done.

Physically or mentally? Physically id say hes nowhere near done, mentally it sounds like this year rejuvenated him more than he expected. He was apparently talking about being able to play 3 more years and only said hed definitely retire if they wont it all.

Basically as a Falcons fan I really hope he comes back.

[Glengoyne]

It's gotta be amazing to get to go to the Conference championship and get to coach against Mike Smith.


I gotta say that Smith didn't have any turnovers in that game. They were slicing and dicing their way through the Niner D. I don't think Smith was the issue here.

[Danny]

I hope gonzo comes back hes still one ofvthrvbeet

[Desnudo]

I gotta say that Smith didn't have any turnovers in that game. They were slicing and dicing their way through the Niner D. I don't think Smith was the issue here.

Couple of untimely turnovers and penalties were the only difference in my mind

[BillJasper]

Physically or mentally? Physically id say hes nowhere near done, mentally it sounds like this year rejuvenated him more than he expected. He was apparently talking about being able to play 3 more years and only said hed definitely retire if they wont it all.

Basically as a Falcons fan I really hope he comes back.

Incredible player that I enjoy watching.

But I think sometimes even players can tell when something isn't meant to be. I think it'll come down to how much more punishment he's willing to take in chasing a goal that is likely unattainable.

[kingfc22]

That kick had a ton if hang time. Wind direction may play a factor in this one.

[BillJasper]

Nice way to get the Ravens to burn a timeout early.

[DaddyTorgo]

Blarg - too bad the short throws were covered and the wind fluffed that pass to Welker.

Haha on the fake punt forcing a timeout by the Ravens though.

[MizzouRah]

Well damn you Atlanta!

I will forgive you if the Ravens win!

[Carman Bulldog]

Pats need back to back wins over two teams who previously beat them this year to win the Super Bowl. Normally, odds would be pretty long in that.

[jeff061]

Pats need back to back wins over two teams who previously beat them this year to win the Super Bowl. Normally, odds would be pretty long in that.
Is this a factual statement? All I know is the Pats never lose to the same team twice, not sure that really means anything though.

[DaddyTorgo]

LLOYD. Hella grab.

[DaddyTorgo]

Is this a factual statement? All I know is the Pats never lose to the same team twice, not sure that really means anything though.

Yep - lost to Baltimore on a last-second FG early and had that barn-burner where they lost to SF after the big comeback.

[jeff061]

Yep - lost to Baltimore on a last-second FG early and had that barn-burner where they lost to SF after the big comeback.
I meant the long odds portion.

[DaddyTorgo]

Nice stop by the Ravens there. FG Pats