FALCONS CAMP BEGINS

Unlike many of the pundits in Atlanta, I refuse to look at the 8-8 Falcons season in 2015 as a failure. I never valued the talent on the roster as being a true contender. When they started (6-1) I was floored. Nobody saw that coming. In true fashion after that start nobody could have predicted the collapse to (2-7) down the stretch. Though he relies on cliches and bumper sticker slogans far too often, I still choose to believe that Dan Quinn did a solid job last year.

The 2016 club has to face the biggest strength of schedule difficulty swing in the NFL. The Falcons had the easiest NFL schedule in 2015 and face the 3rd toughest this year. That will be a lot to overcome. Going into camp my mind wanders towards around an (8-8) season again. Without a ton of added roster talent and compensating expectations for the tougher schedule, that might be quite an accomplishment.

I’m trying to remain somewhat positive and open minded on the Quinn administration. Year Two must show promise for the future. Those who speak of him being on the hot seat are crazy in my mind. Let’s wait and see how this year plays out. Quinn may surprise me and his more vocal detractors.

THE BRAVES HAVE LET ME DOWN A BIT

I was not expecting a season of contention in the NL East. I was expecting more than 36 wins late in July. I was not expecting to see young players stepping up and dominating from the start. I was expecting to see more young talent on display.

2016 has been a bit of a wasted season. I know that the rebuild will take time, but I expected the organization to make moves to have a younger roster on the field this year. It is as if they knew they had a captive audience in 2017 when the new ballpark opens in Cobb County. The seats will be filled as fans want to sample the new stadium. Now I see 2017 will look a lot more like I expected 2016 to be. Let’s hope the trade deadline has a few surprise moves for us all.

WHEN IN VEGAS
I always enjoy visiting Las Vegas with my family or on a business trip. I’ve got a few observations for you.

1. If you want a family friendly, but rather pricey night out, go to see “O” by Cirque de Soleil at the Bellagio. Truly fantastic and best I’ve ever seen of the Cirque series.
2. Pools are slowly becoming daytime nightclubs in Vegas. They are now the 4th highest income stream for the hotels. Choose your hotel closely and see if the pool complex is truly what you are looking for. Some of them are becoming strip clubs for the daytime by the dress codes.
3. Top Golf Las Vegas does not disappoint but it is truly different than the 2 Atlanta versions. You have to be 21 or older to visit the top level. They have a pool and DJ and the lines are long to get in. Great option for the family in daytime hours.
4. The Delta just after 8am flight out of Atlanta is the way to go. You land just after 9am Vegas time. You get an entire day to enjoy everything in Vegas. We prefer flying home on the early afternoon flight which gets you back around 8pm to Atlanta.

COMING SOON:

I approached 680 The Fan management about having one of the biggest, most exciting contests ever offered in football season in Atlanta. They complied and our sales team has been hard at work.

This contest will redefine “bragging rights” on NFL expertise for one listener. Plus we will have a hosts and special invited guests bracket so you we can play along! Details are coming soon! Can’t wait to share in the fun!

TWITTER DOMINANCE

Thank you for making me the only Top 100 Twitter follow in Atlanta sports radio! Get involved and join the fray @johnkincade