Atlanta Falcons’ quarterback Matt Ryan was chosen by the Associated Press as the NFL’s Offensive Rookie Of the Year. The former Boston College field general helped guide the team into the 2008- 2009 playoffs. Ryan made Atlanta’s fans forget about the loss of Michael Vick.
Ryan’s Season
The frosh QB threw for 3,440 yards, completing 61.1% of his passes for 16 TDs and a rating of 87.7. He tossed 11 picks and was sacked 17 times. Ryan’s youth was representative of the inexperience on this Falcons’ team.
Ryan at B.C.
Ryan displayed intangibles in college that made him a leader and a winner. When at B.C., he was one of those special players who craved high-pressure situations. The AP honor is especially impressive, since there were many fine rookies from which the organization could choose.
Ryan’s Observations
Upon being selected, Ryan said, “I’m certainly flattered. There’s a number of guys who had great rookie seasons this year, so to even be mentioned in that light is nice. It’s certainly a great honor, and I think it speaks to what we did as a team this year.”
The Falcons won 11 and lost just five, making it into the playoffs. It was in 2007 that Atlanta’s star quarterback Michael Vick was sent to prison and the Falcons simply seemed adrift. Ryan, who was the third overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, has been a massive addition to the franchise, pulling them out of their doldrums.
Ryan observed today, “The season seems like a blur, without question. It seems like it’s gone by so fast. I just really tried to take it in stride and not get caught up in all the things that happened this year.” He added, “We had success and we were able to get a wild-card spot, so that was the huge thing for us this year. Now that we’re in we have a chance like everybody else. Hopefully we can make the most of it.”
Ryan and the Playoffs
The Falcons have a sound QB calling signals, a fine running game and an excellent defense. Unlike 20 other teams in the NFL, Atlanta and Ryan are in the 2008- 2009 playoffs.