Atlanta Falcons · Franchise era 3 of 7
The Dirty Birds: the Atlanta Falcons story
Franchise era
1997—2001
The Dirty Birds
Atlanta Falcons
The story in one sentence
The 1998 Falcons went 14–2, stunned Minnesota in overtime and reached the first Super Bowl in franchise history behind Anderson and a veteran defense.
A power run carries Atlanta to the Super Bowl
Jamal Anderson, Jessie Tuggle and Chris Chandler gave the era its recognizable core.
Its ending created the conditions for the michael vick experience.
Timeline
How it unfolded
Before 1997
What came before
Sanders brought speed and swagger to a franchise still searching for consistency, setting the tone for a bolder Atlanta football identity.
1999-01-09
Divisional Round: San Francisco 49ers vs Atlanta Falcons
1999-01-17
Conference Championship: Atlanta Falcons vs Minnesota Vikings
1999-01-31
Super Bowl: Atlanta Falcons vs Denver Broncos
After 2001
What came next
Vick's speed changed defensive geometry and delivered the first road playoff win at Lambeau, but the era ended abruptly before its potential was resolved.
The core