We all know about Michael Vick's legal troubles. There's no sense in piling-on here--Falcons fans know that their franchise is in a bunch of trouble. It appears (right now) that Vick will be available to play football this season, but the days-in-absentia are already starting. This situation isn't going to be like Kobe Bryant, where Vick can fly-in on gameday, then fly-out to face trial. With the study and diligence required to be an NFL player, much less a quarterback, it's going to be difficult for a player with this much on his plate to play--and play well. Vick is the quarterback of the Falcons, the guy who's supposed to be leading them. Joey Harrington had better get his arm warmed up.
What does this mean for the Saints?
- First, and foremost, the Saints' quest to repeat in 2007 becomes the second-biggest storyline in the division. Methinks this is a good thing: I was getting a bit weary of the hackneyed "Cinderella, the day after the ball" storylines. It will also be nice to see someone besides the Saints have pressure on them this season.
- Obviously the Saints will play the Falcons twice. With Mike Vick, the Falcons appeared to be a threat to the Saints' NFC South primacy. Without Mike Vick, the Falcons (on paper, provided they don't sign Daunte Culpepper) are much less threatening. That's not to say that they aren't a threat:
The NFC South will be a dogfight (why?) this year, but remember, it's not the size of the dog in the fight (heartless bastard), it's the size of the fight in the dog (awful taste).