Introduction to Atlanta Falcons Football
Welcome to the world of the Dirty Birds! If you are new to the NFL or have recently moved to the Peach State, you might be looking for a comprehensive beginner guide to atlanta falcons football. The Atlanta Falcons are more than just a sports team; they are a cultural cornerstone of Georgia. From the legendary ‘Dirty Bird’ dance of the late 90s to the high-tech marvel of Mercedes-Benz Stadium, there is a lot to learn and love about this franchise. Whether you are curious if the is atlanta falcons a good team beginners should follow or you just want to know where the best hot dogs are in the stadium, this guide covers it all.
As you dive into the world of professional football, you may find yourself exploring various niches within the 101 of fandom. For those interested in broader athletic topics, our Sports section offers a wealth of information on different leagues. Today, however, we are focusing strictly on the red, black, and silver.
A Brief Atlanta Falcons Team History for Fans
Understanding the atlanta falcons team history for fans is essential for appreciating the current state of the team. The franchise was founded in 1965 by Rankin Smith and began play in 1966. The early years were challenging, as is common with expansion teams, but the Falcons eventually found their footing. The team’s first major peak occurred in 1977 with the ‘Gritz Blitz’ defense, which set an NFL record for the fewest points allowed in a 14-game season.
The 1998 ‘Dirty Bird’ Season
One of the most iconic eras in franchise history was 1998. Led by head coach Dan Reeves and quarterback Chris Chandler, the Falcons went 14-2 and reached Super Bowl XXXIII. This was the era of the ‘Dirty Bird’ celebration, popularized by Jamal Anderson. While they ultimately fell to the Denver Broncos, this season cemented the Falcons’ place in the hearts of Atlantans.
The Move to Mercedes-Benz Stadium
In 2017, the team transitioned from the Georgia Dome to the state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This move signaled a new era of fan engagement and architectural innovation. If you are just starting your journey as a fan, check out our other Beginner Guide resources to help you navigate new hobbies and interests.
The Best Atlanta Falcons Players of All Time
To talk like a pro at a tailgate, you need to know the best atlanta falcons players of all time. These legends shaped the identity of the team:
- Claude Humphrey: A dominant defensive end and Hall of Famer from the early years.
- Deion ‘Prime Time’ Sanders: One of the most electrifying athletes in history, playing both football and baseball in Atlanta.
- Matt Ryan (Matty Ice): The franchise’s all-time leading passer and 2016 NFL MVP.
- Julio Jones: Widely considered one of the greatest wide receivers to ever play the game.
- Jessie Tuggle: Known as ‘The Hammer,’ Tuggle was the heart of the Falcons’ defense for over a decade.
How to Watch Atlanta Falcons Games
For many new fans, the biggest question is how to watch atlanta falcons games. Depending on where you live, you have several options:
Local Broadcasts
If you live in the Atlanta market, most games are broadcast on FOX or CBS on Sunday afternoons. Primetime games (Monday, Thursday, or Sunday night) may appear on ESPN, NBC, or Amazon Prime Video.
Streaming Services
Services like YouTube TV, FuboTV, and Hulu + Live TV are popular for cord-cutters. If you are out of market, NFL Sunday Ticket is the primary way to see every out-of-market game. While setting up your streaming devices, you might encounter technical hitches. If you are also managing a fan blog or website and run into issues, learning how to fix common wordpress errors… can be just as important as knowing the game schedule.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium: A Seating Guide for Beginners
Attending a game in person is an experience like no other. However, the venue is massive. A mercedes benz stadium seating guide beginners usually recommends the 100-level for proximity to the action, but the 200-level offers the best view of the ‘Halo Board’—the largest video board in professional sports. If you are on a budget, the 300-level still offers great views and access to the stadium’s famous ‘Fan First’ pricing, where you can get a hot dog for $2 and a refillable soda for $4.
Best Places to Park at Falcons Stadium
When looking for the best places to park at falcons stadium, it is highly recommended to use the ‘ParkMobile’ app to reserve a spot in the Red, Blue, or Yellow lots. These are the closest to the gates, though private lots in the Castleberry Hill neighborhood offer a more authentic ‘local’ feel with great pre-game atmospheres.
Fan Tips: What to Wear and How to Tailgate
Knowing what to wear to falcons home game is simple: Red, Black, and White. Whether it is a vintage jersey or a simple team cap, showing your colors is vital. For those wondering where to buy official falcons gear, the Team Store at Mercedes-Benz Stadium or the official NFL Shop online are the safest bets for authentic merchandise.
Easy Recipes for Falcons Tailgating Parties
Tailgating is a southern tradition. Here are some easy recipes for falcons tailgating parties:
- Dirty Bird Wings: Smoked wings with a peach-habanero glaze.
- Red Zone Sliders: Mini beef patties with pimento cheese.
- Falcon Punch: A non-alcoholic fruit punch for the kids, or spiked for the adults.
A Simple Explanation of Falcons Football Rules
If you are totally new to the sport, here is a simple explanation of falcons football rules. The goal is to move the ball 10 yards in four tries (downs). If the team moves it 10 yards, they get another four tries. Getting the ball into the ‘End Zone’ is a Touchdown (6 points), followed by an Extra Point (1 point). If they can’t get a touchdown, they might kick a Field Goal (3 points). For more official rules, you can visit the Official NFL Rules Page.
Getting Involved: Fan Clubs and Training Camp
Many fans want to know how to join atlanta falcons fan clubs. There are official groups like the ‘Falcons Women’s Association’ and local chapters in various cities. Another great way to engage is through a guide to atlanta falcons training camp visits. Held in Flowery Branch, GA, training camp allows fans to see players up close for free during the summer months. This is often the best time for how to get autographs from falcons players—arrive early and stand near the fence after practice sessions.
Fun Facts about Atlanta Falcons for Kids
If you are teaching your children about the team, here are some fun facts about atlanta falcons for kids:
- The mascot’s name is Freddie Falcon.
- The stadium has a retractable roof that opens and closes like a camera shutter.
- The giant falcon statue outside the stadium is the largest bird sculpture in the world!
Budgeting for the Season
For those considering a long-term commitment, atlanta falcons season ticket prices for beginners can vary wildly. The ‘Memberships’ usually require a Personal Seat License (PSL), but the team occasionally offers ‘Flex’ plans that are more affordable for new fans. You can find more details on the Official Falcons Ticket Office.
Conclusion
Being a Falcons fan is a journey filled with highs and lows, but the community and the excitement of Sunday afternoons make it all worth it. From mastering the history to finding the perfect parking spot, you are now equipped with the knowledge to ‘Rise Up’ with the rest of Atlanta. For more deep dives into lifestyle and sports, keep exploring our site and check out our technical guides if you ever need help with your digital presence. Now, get out there, grab some gear, and get ready for kickoff!
