FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. (AP) - Michael Turner, who has the most carries in the NFL the last four seasons, is facing the possibility of a diminished role this season.
Turner has flourished in Atlanta's run-first offense, claiming the Falcons' career record for rushing touchdowns in only four seasons.
There are new questions for the 30-year-old Turner in a pass-first offense. He looked slower late last season and in limited carries in his first two preseason games.
New offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter's scheme is emphasizing Matt Ryan's passes, including screens that may better suit the skills of second-year running back Jacquizz Rodgers.
Coach Mike Smith said this week Turner is still "our No. 1 back." The veteran has a chance to disprove his doubters in the Falcons' preseason game at Miami on Friday night.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
By PAUL NEWBERRY AP National Writer The son of the U.S. national swim team director is reporting that Michael Phelps is planning a comeback for the 2016 Rio Olympics.
By PAUL NEWBERRY AP National Writer Is Michael Phelps planning a comeback?
Saturday, May 18 2013 5:56 PM EDT2013-05-18 21:56:36 GMT
The Atlanta Braves have placed left-hander Eric O'Flaherty on the 15-day disabled list with a left elbow strain and called up right-hander Cory Rasmus from Triple-A Gwinnett.
The Atlanta Braves have placed left-hander Eric O'Flaherty on the 15-day disabled list with a left elbow strain and called up right-hander Cory Rasmus from Triple-A Gwinnett.
Friday, May 17 2013 11:45 PM EDT2013-05-18 03:45:14 GMT
Atlanta Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff biked his way to work on Friday. Dimitroff rode from Buckhead to The Georgia Dome as part of "National Bike to Work Day."
Atlanta Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff biked his way to work on Friday. Dimitroff rode from Buckhead to The Georgia Dome as part of "National Bike to Work Day."
Justin Upton gave Atlanta the lead with a sixth-inning grand slam and the Braves finally unveiled their full-strength lineup, beating the Los Angeles Dodgers 8-5 on Friday night.
Justin Upton gave Atlanta the lead with a sixth-inning grand slam and the Braves finally unveiled their full-strength lineup, beating the Los Angeles Dodgers 8-5 on Friday night.
By DOUG FERGUSON AP Golf Writer Ken Venturi, who overcame dehydration to win the 1964 U.S. Open and spent 35 years in the booth for CBS Sports, died Friday afternoon. He was 82.
By DOUG FERGUSON AP Golf Writer Ken Venturi, who overcame dehydration to win the 1964 U.S. Open and spent 35 years in the booth for CBS Sports, died Friday afternoon. He was 82.
