I believe in the Punt

[Peyton]

(12-29-2010 11:41 AM)Ballfan Wrote:  I am certain this decision was made with the knowledge that it was not a must win game. If that situation happens in the playoffs, the Falcons go for it on 4th down.

I don't really understand that argument. Play every game to win. Why give up in a game where you are down 3 points and have the ball?

[Ballfan]

(12-29-2010 11:52 AM)Peyton Wrote:  I don't really understand that argument. Play every game to win. Why give up in a game where you are down 3 points and have the ball?

Smitty is an emotional guy and I think the team feeds off of that. Going by the book is the safe call. The Punt was the safe call. Going for it on 4th and 6 is gutsy, but when two teams are that close, you have to use the extra down. That is a win the game or lose the game decision, wheras the punt just extends the game.

In the playoffs, going for it on 4th and 6 would bring down the house.

[Drathdon]

Going for it (positive):
We get the first down. Chance to win, or get FG for tie.

Going for it (negative):
We don't make it (taking hardly any clock), and STILL have to hold them to 3-and-out to get the ball back, but will lose some field position. FG is not a factor, as any yardage gain by the Saints to get into FG position also makes the clock run to 00:00, ending game.

Punting (positive):
???
MAYBE they fumble, but is that our best chance to win?

Punting (negative):
We never see the ball again if out gassed D can't get the 3-and-out.

Seems the call is easy to me... but I will give Smitty a break on it, as one call (or two if you count not going for 2 against Baltimore) is nothing compared to how disciplined and well-coached the team is, overall.