In 1965 the Atlanta Falcons came into the National Football League as an expansion team when Rankin Smith paid the huge sum of $8.5 million for the franchise. As with most expansion teams of the era they were terrible, winning only 12 times in their first 4 years. In the deep south, where college ball is religion, these were painful years for the faithful. And things didn't improve much during the next 20 years. Yes, there were playoff years and yes there was Neon Deion Sanders for a while, but mostly it was a team playing in virtual anonymity.
But then came Mike Smith and Matt Ryan in 2008 and everything changed. Winning seasons, playoff games and fan joy returned to Atlanta. Now, in their 47th season, this year's team has become a fan favorite because of their incredible cast of characters and the style of football they play. The 2012 Falcons are destined to be one of the most remembered teams of the decade.
For elite fans of unique Atlanta Falcons autographed football memorabilia, this might do the trick:
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| 2012 Atlanta Falcons Team Signed Helmet |
