The Atlanta Falcons are the team that everybody wants to succeed but are not surprised when they fail. The Falcons are betting on first year head coach Bobby Petrino to turn their team into an offensive juggernaut like he did with the NCAA Louisville Cardinals. The bet- Will Petrino be able to utilize quarterback Michael Vick's unquestionable talent and speed and silence the critics as well as the growls of the Falcon faithful and find Football glory? The critics however will remain due Vicks suspect arm and his shotty on-field and off field decision making. Lately Vick has been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons.

Petrino will have his hands full. It would be nice to see Michael Vick put into different offensive schemes like a Kordell Stewart a la "slash" persona. That is, if Vick's pride will allow it. Offensively, the Falcons have the man power. Running back Warrick Dunn, despite losing a step or two from his Florida State days, still has the elusiveness of a Barry Sanders and the ability to dance through holes in the line unseen to the untrained eye. Sure, they'll be a two back team, but the little guy still gets it done.

Defensively, the Falcons are praying that their first round draft pick, defensive end Jamall Anderson from Arkansas, can be the much needed piece on their defensive line to take them to the big time. Note: the last time a Jamal Anderson was on the team the power back took them to Super Bowl XXXIII. Defensively they are solid. Their linebackers are smart and wily, their cornerbacks speedy, but will their solidarity last the full grinding NFL season?

Yep, Coach Petrino has inherited a team with unlimited potential. However, the NFL is a giant leap from the college game. Many coaches have tried and failed. Only time will tell whether the offensive guru will fall flat or take the Falcons to the Promised Land. For the Falcons and Mike Vick?s sake I hope he can make the transition and find success. Sure, nobody expects a Super Bowl trip in his first season but with the talent bestowed upon him expectations are high. When all is said and done one thing is for certain. Mike Vick's legacy depends on Petrino's ability to adapt.