"For three seasons, Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan and his former position coach, Bill Musgrave, were nearly inseparable.

If you saw Musgrave walking across the practice fields, Ryan wasn't far behind.

If Musgrave was studying film late, Ryan was with him.

When Musgrave would drive out of the complex, Ryan's car was not far behind.

It was the perfect picture of the young and eager student trying to soak up all of the knowledge he could from the wily and experienced mentor.

The relationship — personally and professionally — blossomed. They got along off the field, and Ryan's NFL career exploded on the field.

Ryan credits much of his success, which includes three consecutive winning seasons, two trips to the playoffs, tying the great Dan Marino for most victories in his first three seasons and a trip to the Pro Bowl, to Musgrave, who left after last season to become the offensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings."