Smith says Falcons 'didn't get the job done'

By Charles Odum

Associated Press

Published: Monday, Jan. 9 2012 3:15 p.m. MST

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Atlanta Falcons head coach Mike Smith concludes a season ending news conference at the Atlanta Falcons practice facility in Flowery Branch, Ga., Monday, Jan. 9, 2012. The New York Giants defeated the Falcons 24-2 in an NFC wild-card game on Sunday.

Atlanta Journal Constitution, Curtis Compton, Associated Press

Summary

After another one-and-done in the playoffs, Falcons coach Mike Smith says his team's season can't be called a success.

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — After another one-and-done in the playoffs, Falcons coach Mike Smith says his team's season can't be called a success.

Smith delivered milestones for the franchise with the Falcons' fourth straight winning season and second straight playoff appearance. But he said Monday the team "definitely needs a closer look" after another playoff opening loss.

Sunday's 24-2 loss to the New York Giants left Smith 0-3 in the playoffs in his four years in Atlanta. It was the second straight lopsided loss in the playoffs, following last year's 48-21 home loss to Green Bay.

Smith said players and coaches are frustrated "simply because we didn't get the job done."

Smith announced he must replace defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder, who left to head Auburn's defense.

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