Atlanta Falcons Podcast Network

Dave Archer is joined by Atlanta Falcons senior editor and staff writer Will McFadden to discuss what is ahead for the 2024 AT&T Training Camp, which positions they are closely watching, and questions that need to be answered. 00:00 - Intro 00:57 - Optimism heading into 2024 3:16 - Impressions of Raheem Morris 7:43 - What training camp means now 10:50 - Importance of Staying Power 14:18 - Positions to watch 24:19 - Biggest Questions 31:19 - How to attend a practiceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons training camp is nearly here and there's going to be a lot to take in! Will McFadden, Tori McElhaney and Terrin Waack are here to help fans sort through it all by providing their training camp watch lists. Who is primed to break out? Which newcomer has our undivided attention? Listen to find out and get ready for the start of camp! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons Senior Reporter Tori McElhaney and Falcons Digital Team Reporter Terrin Waack welcome Will McFadden as the Falcons new Lead Editor/Staff Writer. Will joins the crew as they discuss key takeaways from the Falcons offseason. Final Whistle takes a look at the QB situation, a deep pash rush, and a fast WR room.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Derek Rackley, Dave Archer, & D.J. Shockley as they react and share their thoughts on the Atlanta Falcons 2024 draft class.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tori, Derek and Terrin discuss the Falcons’ selection of QB Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 pick overall in 2024 NFL Draft.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Falcons Quarterback Matt Ryan joins Wes Durham and Dave Archer to take a look back through some of the moments that created the legacy of #2 in his career with the Atlanta Falcons.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave and D.J. discuss who they think the Atlanta Falcons may target in the 2024 NFL Draft, as well as talk position groups they believe the Falcons should consider. 00:00 - Intro 00:54 - How did you spend your offseasons? 04:00 - Who we’re selecting at #8 05:10 - D.J. Shockley’s Pick at #8 11:35 - Dave Archer’s Pick at #8 14:12 - Derek Rackley’s Pick at #8 16:30 - Who could be selected 24:49 - Position groups to address 34:25 - Could Atlanta trade?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Atlanta Falcons Quarterback Kirk Cousins joins Terrin Waack and Tori McElhaney to discuss his years in the NFL, making the move to Atlanta, and being your own critic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tori, Dave, and D.J. discuss the moves so far in Atlanta Falcons’ Free Agency and how these roster additions help set the Atlanta Falcons up for success. 00:00 - Intro 00:15 - Topics 01:05 - Why we’re excited for Kirk Cousins 10:27 - Wide Receivers & Evolving Offense 23:20 - Value in depth 27:45 - 2024 NFL DraftSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tori McElhaney and Dave Archer discuss Atlanta Falcons' Free Agency, as well as breaking news on Rondale Moore. The Falcons agreed to terms on a trade of quarterback Desmond Ridder to the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for wide receiver Rondale Moore, pending physicals.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tori McElhaney, Terrin Waack and Amna Subhan take a look back at Raheem Morris' first (public) day as the new head coach of the Atlanta Falcons. They discuss what was -- and wasn't -- said at Morris' introductory press conference, and they also take a look ahead at what's next for the Falcons. 00:00 - Intro 00:22 - Raheem Morris Press Conference 04:33 - Elephant in the room -Super Bowl Loss 07:30 - The Energy shift 12:12 - Quarterback situation 16:20 - What’s nextSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave and D.J. dive into Raheem Morris’ first press conference, discuss the Zac Robinson and Jimmy Lake hires, and talk all things Atlanta Falcons football. 00:00 - Intro 00:31 - Topics 01:00 - Raheem Morris Opening Press Conference 08:30 - What success looks like 13:20 - Zac Robinson as OC 19:50 - Stories from coaching search process 23:42 - Jimmy Lake as DC 27:30 - Status of Atlanta FalconsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Tori McElhaney and Terrin Waack discuss the news of Raheem Morris becoming the 19th head coach in Falcons history. They talk Morris' background, his previous years in Atlanta and what brought the Falcons to this decision. Also on the docket: Falcons announce changes to the organizational structure with owner Arthur Blank, Morris, general manager Terry Fontenot and team CEO Rich McKay.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair, Tori McElhaney and Terrin Waack discuss a 2023 Falcons campaign that ended with the team parting ways with head coach Arthur Smith. They break down the reasons for that dismissal and what owner Arthur Blank and team CEO Rich McKay said about it, plus a look ahead to what's important during the coaching search and why this offseason is as important as any in recent memory.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ discuss Arthur Smith's departure as Atlanta Falcons head coach, reflect on the 2023 season, talk NFL draft and opponents, and what is next for the Falcons in 2024.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons tight end MyCole Pruitt joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss the origin of his unique name, his strong bond with his mother, being pushed by his sister (who is a fitness trainer and his unusual road traveled from high school to Southern Illinois to his multiple NFL stops before finding a home in Atlanta.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

D.J. Shockley and Dave Archer talk all things Atlanta Falcons, breakdown the Chicago Bears matchup and what is ahead vs the New Orleans Saints.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney discuss a difficult, all-three-phases loss to the Bears and why it showed the inconsistencies that have plagued the Falcons all season long. They also take a close look at the state of the quarterback position, including Taylor Heinicke, Desmond Ridder and possible changes coming this offseason. Scott and Tori wrap things up by detailing how the Falcons can still emerge with an NFC South title despite finishing with a losing record. Timestamps (00:00:10): Intro, why the Falcons got beat handily in snowy Chicago (00:05:16): Inconsistency, turnovers define Falcons season (00:07:58): Taylor Heinicke, Desmond Ridder and QB inconsistencies over three-year span (00:14:25): Why quarterback position will define Falcons offseason (00:17:33): How Falcons can still win NFC South despite Bears lossSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons rookie cornerback Clark Phillips III joins Scott Bair and Tori McElhaney to discuss the unbreakable bond with his brother (also a cornerback), growing up in a church his family founded and the source of his confidence on the field. He also talks about his choice to attend Utah over Ohio State and how he got super into roller skating.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek, Dave, and DJ discuss Taylor Heinicke's performance as the starting quarterback in the Falcons vs. Colts game and shine a spotlight on exceptional players, highlight the keys to a Falcons victory against the Bears in week 17, the stakes, and the State of the NFC South. Bringing it all together with NFL Christmas memories!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Terrin Waack, Tori McElhaney and Scott Bair break down the best Falcons performance of the season, a 29-10 victory over the Indianapolis Colts. They break down Taylor Heinicke’s standout performance and why the Falcons were able to put together a clean, four-quarter game with contributions from every phase of the game. Amna Subhan also joins the podcast to discuss how the Falcons defense was able to control the game up front and how Jessie Bates has become such a valuable player Timestamps (00:00:10): Intro, why Falcons performance felt so complete (00:03:55): Is this potential realizing performance too little, too late? (00:06:53): How the Falcons were able to generate so much QB pressure (00:15:37): How Taylor Heinicke set the tone for this Falcons win (00:20:24): What comes next vs. Chicago and New Orleans; and why Falcons fans should root against Tampa BaySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Falcons safety DeMarcco Hellams joins Scott Bair and Terrin Waack to discuss his football journey, dating back to high school memories and running through his college days at Alabama. Hellams is in his rookie season with the Falcons, but he came to Atlanta with a history of success.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.