Turner burns against weak opponents, runs empty on solid defenses

By Adam Sweeney  |   Wednesday, September 24, 2008  |  Comments( 2 )

Atlanta Falcons
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Atlanta running back Michael Turner has been worth every penny the Falcons paid him during the offseason, particularly against weak run defenses. Turner racked up a combined 324 rushing yards and five touchdowns versus the Lions and Chiefs, but his 42-yard effort from Week 2 in Tampa Bay leaves room for concern for this week's showdown with Carolina.

Commentary: Owner Arthur Blank must be thrilled with his young Falcons, who are 2-1. After last year's debacle that included the Michael Vick and Bobby Petrino scandals, the Falcons have proven to be a resilient club. The team is finally giving fans reason for optimism, and no individual player has done so more than Turner. However, before anyone gives LaDainian Tomlinson's ex-backup a Pro Bowl nod, it might be wise to temper expectations.

As mentioned before, Turner capitalized on bad defenses in two brilliant outputs this season; against the Buccaneers' solid 'D', though, he was below average. It won't be easy against the Panthers, who are fairly stingy. Week 4 should help make the legitimacy of Turner’s season more clear.

Fan Pulse: Falcons fans are excited about the praise media pundits are giving them, but many prefer the role of the underdog: http://life.atlantafalcons.com/index.php?showtopic=3804048

Fantasy Football Commentary: Turner probably won't dominate this weekend, but he could fare decently against a Panthers team that gives up 113 yards a game rushing. The question is whether speedy backup Jerious Norwood will take away touchdowns or significant yardage from Turner.

Injury Watch: Tackle Sam Baker missed Monday’s film sessions with flu symptoms, adding to the issues he has faced in recent weeks. Baker suffered a concussion in Week 2.
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About Adam Sweeney

Adam Sweeney spent 4 years as an opinions and arts & entertainment columnist with the Lone Star Lutheran, also working with Sports Illustrated.com. Along with his work on Realfootball 365 he currently is a contributor for Film School Rejects, SLAM Online, Talkhoops.net, and C-Heads Magazine.
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