Atlanta Falcons Podcast Network

Derek, Dave, and DJ breakdown the Falcons vs. Panthers week 15 matchup, discussing the errors that cost the Atlanta Falcons this game and how to avoid making the same mistakes in the future. Derek, Dave, and DJ also pinpoint the keys to a Falcons victory against the Colts in week 16.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tori McElhaney, Terrin Waack and Scott Bair detail what went wrong in a rain-soaked loss to the Carolina Panthers, a game where the Falcons didn’t give up a touchdown yet still came up on the wrong end of the result. They discuss how that happened and what this development means for their playoff chase and their evaluation of Desmond Ridder and the long-term quarterback situation, in addition to some parallels between what happened last year at Carolina and what happened on Sunday. Timestamps (00:00:10): Intro, chronic issues show up against Panthers (00:06:28): Why Falcons defense continues to struggle late in games (00:11:00): Parallels between this loss at Carolina and what happened last year (00:15:20): What caused a change in outlook over the course of eight days (00:16:40): Desmond Ridder’s critical INT; what his turnovers mean in QB1 evaluation (00:21:34): Putting this loss in the context of the NFC SouthSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons legend Tim Dwight joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to talk NFC championship vs the Minnesota Vikings, the 1998 season, and what makes Atlanta special. 00:00 - Intro00:57 - Track meets & the NFL Draft04:11 - From Iowa to Atlanta 06:26 - Importance of vets & being a true team10:23 - Evolution of kickoff return & taking big hits 13:02 - 1st kickoff return touchdown 14:37 - Atlanta during the ’98 season 16:13 - The Dirty Bird17:30 - Memories from Vikings showdown23:53 - Returning kick in Super Bowl 26:36 - Reflecting on careerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Falcons receiver Van Jefferson joins Scott Bair and Terrin Waack to discuss a wild Super Bowl experience with the Rams, where his wife went into labor in the middle of the game. He also breaks down what it was like growing up while his father Shawn Jefferson played receiver in the NFL and then was a position coach in the league, plus the impact of having a dad who played the same position.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ break down the Falcons vs. Buccaneers week 14 matchup and discuss how the Falcons weathered the injury storm with the "next man up" mentality, identify the keys to victory against the Panthers in week 15, and discuss the beauty of playing in the National Football League.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Terrin Waack, Tori McElhaney break down why the Falcons loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 14 was such a big deal within the context of the NFC South title chase. They explain why this loss falls on offense, defense and special teams, and why missed opportunities are becoming too common this season. Special guest Amna Subhan stops by to discuss why the Falcons depth is being tested before the crew discusses the response required after the Falcons lost a game they really wanted to win. Timestamps (00:00:00): Intro, why Bucs loss was a three-phase defeat (00:05:45): Why NFC South gets jumbled up and remains wide open (00:07:30): Younghoe Koo takes blame for Falcons loss (00:11:45): Falcons depth being tested by injury issues (00:16:00): Why this counts as a missed opportunity, maybe more (00:23:21): How Falcons must respond after big defeatSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Falcons defensive back Ray Buchanan joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to offer insight, untold stories about the Falcons 1998 season that ended in the Super Bowl. He also talks about his time in Atlanta, where he played from 1997-2003, and what it was like to represent the Falcons fan base.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons wide receiver Scotty Miller joins Tori McElhaney and Terrin Waack to essentially provide context to a few stories that McElhaney and Waack uncovered. He takes memory lane from his hometown of Barrington, Illinois, to his time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during their latest Super Bowl run and then landing in Atlanta with the Falcons. Miller has always been underestimated because of his size, but he has proven his abilities on field time and time again.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ discuss the Atlanta Falcons defense, breakdown the Falcons vs. Jets game, talk about their worst weather-related NFL game memories, and how to defeat the Buccaneers and maintain the lead in the NFC South. Derek, Dave, and DJ also mention some noteworthy players from week 13 and look forward to the Falcons '98 celebration and Alumni game.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair and Terrin Waack break down how the Falcons emerged from a rain-soaked road game against the New York Jets with their second straight win. It was earned with an excellent defensive performance and quality special teams in a game where field position was at a premium. They also detail how Jessie Bates came through yet again, why it was so encouraging to see Bud Dupree have such a strong showing and how the Falcons can take control of the NFC South. Timestamps (00:00:00): Intro, how Falcons found a way to beat Jets (00:05:20): Why Falcons offense couldn’t get going (00:8:20): Jessie Bates continues to make massive impact (00:10:00): What’s going right with Falcons defense (00:13:50): What Falcons can take from this win moving forward (00:17:11): Putting result in context within the NFC SouthSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons legend Jamal Anderson joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss his storied Falcons career, one that started from humble beginnings, focusing the 1998 team that made it to the Super Bowl 25 years ago now.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Falcons defensive lineman Kentavius Street joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss the long road to recovery from a knee injury that delayed the start of his NFL career nearly two seasons and how it benefitted him down the line. He also details life away from the gridiron, including a childhood spent around his father's racing team and his interest in modern street racing cars as an adult. He also talks about how his passion for animals has prompted him to help rescue pets in need.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ share their favorite moments from Atlanta Falcons 50 Years of Hip-Hop celebration at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Highlight the most noteworthy plays from the Falcons' victory over the Saints, answer questions from the Dirty Birds' nest, and spotlight the achievements of two exceptional players, Jake Matthews and Younghoe Koo. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Terrin Waack and Tori McElhaney break down a vital victory over the New Orleans Saints and why it was so important to the Falcons and their players. They discuss the role of Jessie Bates III, Bijan Robinson and Desmond Ridder in a victory that vaulted the Falcons back atop the NFC South. The podcast wraps with a conversation about what’s required for the Falcons to sustain their positioning and finish with a division title for the first time since 2016. Timestamps (00:00:00): Intro, why victory over Saints was so important (00:07:33): Jessie Bates value vs. New Orleans, 2023 season (00:14:20): Why Bijan Robinson, Falcons run game was so impactful (00:18:51): What Falcons need from Desmond Ridder to win game (00:22:10): Optimism/Caution about Falcons chances to win NFC SouthSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ break down the Falcons vs. Cardinals week 10 matchup by quarter, highlighting key moments from the game, weigh in on the ongoing Falcons Quarterback conversation, and look ahead at the Falcons schedule, specifically the Falcons vs. Saints week 12 matchup, which will take place after both teams' bye week in week 11.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Tori McElhaney and Terrin Waack break down the Falcons’ Week 10 loss to Arizona and where the team stands entering the bye. That discussion focuses on an uncertain quarterback situation, defensive inconsistency and what needs to be fixed for the Falcons to make a real run at the NFC South. 00:00 - Intro 00:52 - Analyzing loss & state of Falcons 07:32 Falcons QB Situation 15:29 - Issues that Falcons must fix 20:23 - State of NFC South with seven games leftSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons rookie defensive lineman Zach Harrison joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss life as a five-star, top-10 recruit and all the attention (both good and bad) that comes with it. The Ohio State product also details why he has always been into the NFL Draft, yet couldn't watch the year he was eligible and got selected by the Falcons. He also explains why support from a family that wasn't obsessed with football was so important to his athletic experience.00:00 - Intro 00:19 - NFL Drafts & Weddings 02:15 - Football family & trivia with Mom 09:00 - 2023 NFL Draft - Uno Reverse 11:25 - Ohio State & Football Dreams 25:45 - Rapid Fire QuestionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek and DJ analyze player performance from the Falcons vs. Vikings matchup, talk about Taylor Heinicke's performance as the starting quarterback, identify the reoccurring problems that the Falcons have faced this season, talk about the keys to a Falcons victory against the Cardinals in week 10, and where the Falcons stand in the NFC South. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Tori McElhaney and Terrin Waack break down the Falcons loss to the Minnesota Vikings, analyzing where things went wrong and why it should be considered a missed opportunity. Taylor Heinicke’s performance goes under the microscope, in addition to points off of turnovers and explosive plays given up by the defense. Timestamps (00:00:00): Intro, what went wrong in loss to Vikings (00:04:46): Why this should be considered a missed opportunity (00:06:20): How turnovers, red-zone opportunities impacted game (00:10:05): Breaking down Taylor Heinicke’s first Falcons start (00:15:45): How to get your BOGO Big Zax Snax deal (00:17:10): Younghoe Koo’s performanceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons punter Bradley Pinion joins Scott Bair and Terrin Waack to discuss his Punts for Purpose initiative and how a life-changing trip to Africa motivated him to get involved helping those in need living there. He also discussed how he got into punting -- he's never played another position -- his passion for rescue animals and things you might not know about his unique position.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ discuss Grady Jarrett's season-ending injury and the impact it will have on The Atlanta Falcons, break down the Falcons vs Titans matchup, talk about Taylor Heinicke stepping in week 8, the keys to a Falcons victory against the Minnesota Vikings, and delve into the X's and O's of special teams.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney break down the Falcons' 28-23 loss to the Tennessee Titans on the latest episode of the Falcons Final Whistle podcast, presented by Zaxby’s. There’s a particular focus on the quarterback situation, after Desmond Ridder played the first half and Taylor Heinicke played the second. Scott and Tori present the details of that situation, as explained by head coach Arthur Smith and Ridder. They also break down Taylor Heinicke’s performance in the second half and the costly explosive plays allowed by the defense. Timestamps (00:00:00): Intro, what’s coming up on Falcons Final Whistle (00:01:48): What Arthur Smith, Desmond Ridder said about halftime QB switch (00:10:15): Evaluating Taylor Heinicke’s performance versus Titans (00:21:20): On defensive effort that allowed four explosive TDs (00:26:05): Why Falcons continue to hover near .500See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons receiver KhaDarel Hodge joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss his unorthodox path through college football and the NFL, a position switch and how growing up in a small Mississippi town helped shape him. He also details how he became a social media star through TikTok videos that have gone viral.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ explore where the Falcons are now and where they could go, and dive into the keys to a Falcons victory against the Tennessee Titans in week 8. 00:00 - Intro01:21 - Topics 01:45 - Favorite play of the game05:57 - Where are we now, and where is the ceiling?22:03 - Keys to victory vs TitansSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Terrin Waack and Tori McElhaney break down a big win over the Tampa Bay Bucs that vaulted the Falcons into first place in the NFC South. They detail how the Falcons overcame three lost fumbles with goal-to-go to pull out a big win. Defense made another big stand to keep the Falcons in the game and gave them a chance to set up Younghoe Koo’s game-winner as time expired. We also go over what needs to get fixed and how close they are to being pretty darn good. Timestamps (00:00:00): Intro, takeaways from big win in Tampa (00:05:55): Why winning games with so many turnovers is not sustainable (00:08:13): Breaking down Desmond Ridder’s turnovers, performance (00:10:58): Falcons run game without Bijan Robinson (00:14:35): How to evaluate a big win with some critical mistakes (00:19:00): How Desmond Ridder can help Falcons level upSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons cornerback joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss what it's like playing in his hometown and the ability to stay connected with a family that's so important to his success, plus the strong bond he shares with fellow defensive backs. He also details why he gives so much back to his alma mater, Westlake High School, a place that meant so much to him growing up.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ break down the X’s and O’s of the Falcons vs. Commanders matchup, highlight the moment Calais Campbell recorded his 100th career sack in the NFL, and go over the NFC South standings and the keys to a Falcons victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in week 7.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott, Terrin and Tori break down a missed opportunity to beat the Washington Commanders, breaking down where things went wrong for the Falcons in their first home loss of the season. They focus on pivotal moments in the fourth quarter, including a decision to go for a 2-point conversion late, and some procedural issues uncharacteristic of Arthur Smith teams. They also look at the Falcons run game, Desmond Ridder’s interceptions and the fact that the Falcons are too often losing the turnover battle, and finish things off by honoring Calais Campbell after he secured his 100th sack. Timestamps (00:00:00): Intro, why Falcons missed opportunity to beat Washington (00:04:05): What Arthur Smith said about pivotal fourth-quarter moments (00:14:33): Why Falcons couldn’t overcome rushing issues (00:19:05): Why losing the turnover battle has proven so costly (00:24:15): How to get your BOGO Big Zax Snak from Zaxby’s (00:24:40): Calais Campbell’s 100th sackSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons rookie left guard Matthew Bergeron joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss life growing up in Quebec, Canada, and how he was introduced to football, got a scholarship to Syracuse as a complete unknown and overcame a language barrier as a native French speaker after coming to the United States. 00:00 - Intro 00:25 - Falcons French 101 02:46 - Journey from Canada to play in NFL 12:22 - Learning English & language of Football 15:46 - Getting First Start 19:20 - COVID & Importance of Family 21:30 - Draft night & representing Canada See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ break into the Falcons vs. Texans game identifying the game MVPs, matchup highlights, evaluating Desmond Ridder's performance, and discussing the keys to a week 6 victory vs the Washington Commanders.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Tori McElhaney and Terrin Waack break down the Falcons big, come-from-behind win over the Houston Texans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Demond Ridder’s role in it. The second-year quarterback silenced some skeptic with the best performance of his professional career, rebounding well after two subpar performances prompted questions about a possible QB change. We detail the game-winning drive, Younghoe Koo’s decisive field goal, Kyle Pitts, Drake London and another solid defensive performance by Ryan Nielsen’s crew. Timestamps (00:00:10): Intro, recapping how Falcons beat Texans (00:01:05): Evaluating Desmond Ridder’s performance vs. Houston (00:06:10): How Falcons found rhythm in the passing game (00:08:20): Breaking down game-winning drive, Younghoe Koo’s FG (00:12:58): Bijan Robinson proving human before going superhuman again (00:16:35): What must get better to beat Washington CommandersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Edge rusher Bud Dupree joins Scott and Tori to discuss life growing up in middle Georgia and the importance of being a role model to those from his community. He also discusses his business ventures outside of football, including a restaurant and a record label, and how he got a street named after him in his hometown.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott, Tori and Terrin evaluate the good and the bad from the Falcons first four games, which produced a 2-2 record, in the latest episode of Falcons Final Whistle. They evaluate quarterback Desmond Ridder, running back Bijan Robinson and a stout Falcons defense, plus they identify what must improve heading into the next four-game stretch. 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Topics 02:30 - Quick recap of how the Falcons got to 2-2 06:35 - How fans can BOGO Big Zax snack at next home game 07:05- State of Atlanta Falcons Defense 12:05 - Bijan Robinson & the offense 15:45 - Areas to grow 27:50 - Upcoming four game stretch vs. HOU, WASH, TB, TENSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ break down the Falcons vs. Jaguars game and highlight notable players, evaluate the Falcons losses and discover common themes that ran through both games, and discuss the path to redemption in week 5 as the Falcons prepare to face the Texans. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons defensive lineman Ta'Quon Graham joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss how family and his upbringing in Texas allowed him to thrive and realize his dream of playing NFL football. He also talked about his love of food and how Grady Jarrett has helped him thrive at the professional level.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ discuss the positives and challenges during the Atlanta Falcons and Detroit Lions matchup, how the Falcons can get back on track against the Jacksonville Jaguars while on the road in London, as well as take a brief look at the NFC South. 00:00 - Intro 00:15 - Topics 01:00 - Positives from Falcons vs Lions matchup 04:28 - Where Falcons faced challenges 13:18 - How to get back on track vs Jaguars 20:30 - Keys to Week 4 Falcons victory over Jaguars 26:51 - NFC South overviewSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Tori McElhaney and Terrin Waack break down what went wrong in the Falcons’ 20-6 loss to Detroit in Week 3 and why they weren’t able to play the complementary football required to beat a team like the Lions. The offense couldn’t find rhythm in the passing game and didn’t have a run game to fall back on, creating a stagnant attack that struggled despite the score being close until the end. They also take a look at what must improve as the Falcons head into a crucial Week 4 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. Timestamps (00:00:10): Intro, what went wrong vs. Lions (00:02:10): Why Falcons weren’t able to play complementary football (00:04:20): Why couldn’t Falcons find offensive rhythm (00:09:18): Breaking down Desmond Ridder’s performance vs. Lions (00:12:50): The good and just-okay from Falcons defensive performance (00:17:45): What must improve vs. Jaguars; difference between perfect and complete gamesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Assistant head coach -- defense Jerry Gray joins Tori McElhaney and Scott Bair for a career retrospective, where he tells great stories from his days playing at Texas and his storied NFL career, followed by his journey through the coaching ranks before ending up here in Atlanta.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ discuss the nostalgia of seeing the Atlanta Falcons in their throwback uniforms for week 2, shine a light on notable players from the Falcons vs. Packers game, break down the call that led to a Falcons victory, and discuss the challenges the Falcons may face in week 3 against the Lions and how to overcome those challenges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Tori McElhaney and Terrin Waack detail how the Falcons were able to erase a two-score deficit in the fourth quarter and earn a late victory over the Green Bay Packers. They dive deep into the that comeback effort, which required positive contributions from the Falcons defense, quarterback Desmond Ridder and rookie offensive weapon Bijan Robinson. That discussion also focuses on Arthur Smith’s decisive fourth-down play that helped the Falcons come out on top. Then they move things forward and talk about what needs to be better to beat a tough Detroit Lions team and win a third straight game. Timestamps (00:00:10): Intro, reaction to big Falcons win (00:01:06): How Falcons got job done in fourth quarter (00:03:23): How to get a BOGO Big Zax Snak (00:04:31): Dissecting Arthur Smith’s key fourth-down decision (00:10:00): Bijan’s performance and how he’s building trust (00:15:27): Evaluating Desmond Ridder’s performance (00:20:37) What Falcons must improve to go 3-0See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons defensive lineman Calais Campbell sits down for an extended, in-depth conversation with Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney on the latest episode of Falcons in Focus. He talks about what's required to perform at a high level over so many years, entering fatherhood, his upbringing, the importance of paying it forward and even the origin story of his raspy voice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ discuss the atmosphere at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the Falcons home opener, the top players on both sides of the ball from the Falcons vs. Panthers game, the significance of this Falcons' victory, and areas of growth and focus for the Atlanta Falcons as they prepare for their week 2 matchup against the Green Bay Packers. 00:00 - Intro 00:40 - Topics 01:04 - Falcons home opener atmosphere 06:31 - Top performers of Panthers matchup 12:32 - Significance of Falcons victory 18:02 - Week 2 areas of growth & FocusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Tori McElhaney and Terrin Waack detail what went right during a 24-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers and what needs to be better moving forward in this episode of the Falcons Final Whistle podcast presented by Zaxby's. They touch of Jessie Bates III’s exemplary performance, Kyle Pitts’ flashes, how Tyler Allgeier and Bijan Robinson carried the load and how the offense fine-tune itself after the passing game struggled throughout the contest. Timestamps (00:00:10): Intro (00:01:35): Dissecting Jessie Bates III stellar Falcons debut (00:04:59): How to get a BOGO Big Zax Snak (00:06:02): Breaking down Tyler Allgeier, Bijan Robinson performance (00:10:00): Where can offense get better? (00:15:02): What we saw from Kyle Pitts’ return to regular-season game action (00:15:02): Why problems are more fixable than in recent seasons (00:18:35) How Falcons wore Panthers downSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Atlanta Falcons running back Tyler Allgeier joins Tori McElhaney and Scott Bair to discuss his hobbies off the field, making lifelong friendships with teammates, his road to the NFL and family sacrifices, and going the extra mile to achieve his NFL dream.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ discuss the keys to an Atlanta Falcons victory over the Carolina Panthers, where the Falcons must step up as the season begins, and reminisce about their favorite season opener memories.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

General manager Terry Fontenot sits down with Tori McElhaney to discuss the state of the Falcons after the initial 53-man roster was formed. He talks about Desmond Ridder, Bijan Robinson and the entire 2023 NFL Draft class, plus the importance of finding the "right 53" and staying disciplined consistent when it comes to the salary cap.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ discuss the initial 53-man roster and what it could mean for the Atlanta Falcons in the season ahead. 00:00 - Intro 00:57 - Topics 01:29 - Describe this roster in three words 05:10 - Thoughts on current roster 13:48 - State of the offense 20:17 - State of the defense See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott, Tori and Terrin break down the Falcons initial 53-man roster, including standouts who earned a spot during camp, the biggest cuts and whether a deeper, vastly improved collection of talent can compete in the NFC South.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons safety Micah Abernathy joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss growing up as the grandson of civil rights activist Ralph David Abernathy and his family's strong connection to the city of Atlanta. He also breaks down the opportunity before him to make the Falcons 53-man roster and what it means to play for his hometown team on the latest episode of Falcons in Focus. 0:00 - Intro00:20 - Getting signed by the Atlanta Falcons2:06 - Experience playing in home town3:41 - Upbringing & Childhood memories in Atlanta5:15 - Influence from Michael Vick6:24 - Bearing the Abernathy name7:58 - Family Legacy in Atlanta8:53 - A Father’s love & Family Support11:11 - The legacy of Ralph David Abernathy13:55 - Restoring something special in Atlanta15:20 - Influential women16:13 - Building for the next generation18:15 - A journey ‘driven by faith’21:28 - Relationship with Jerry Gray22: 30 - Overcoming adversity23:30 - Building something special at Falcons26:45 - Training Camp rituals27:35 - Rapid Fire QuestionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ dive into the positive takeaways from the Atlanta Falcons vs Cincinnati Bengals matchup, the Falcons evolving offense, expectations for the final preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and what it takes to make the Atlanta Falcons 53-man roster.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.