Falcons Approach QB Benching Record

ATLANTA, GA - The Atlanta Falcons moved one step closer to the season quarterback benching record when head coach Bobby Petrino replaced Byron Leftwich with Joey Harrington in the third quarter of the 31-7 loss to the Buccaneers. The move puts the total benchings to date at 4, putting the record of 5 within easy reach. With the possibility of Chris Redman making a start before the season is over, the record could be shattered.

"I decided we needed a little more mobility at quarterback." said Petrino of the decision to pull Leftwich, whose scrambling style has been likened to 'a guy with kayaks on his feet'. When told the record would be tied with one more quarterback change, Petrino replied, "We'll have to evaluate the video from today and see who gives us the best opportunity as a team to win a game.", a statement never before heard by any sports reporter.

Other teams, namely the Chicago Bears and the Miami Dolphins, have said they will challenge the validity of the record should the Falcons claim to break it. "They're counting Michael Vick, and although he was replaced, he was never technically benched." said an unnamed source in the Bear's front office. "NFL rules clearly state that an offical beching must be preceeded by an actual crappy performance on the field."

"I'm sure there will be plenty of opportunities for that [crappy performances] at a later date." said Petrino. "We've got a lot of football in front of us."

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