So why the Atlanta Falcons, and why now?   

That is the big question mark here.  Carroll could have already landed a much better NFL position if he really wanted one.  If Carroll is really considering the Falcons, he should think twice.  Besides the publicity mess in Atlanta, they have quarterback problems, and attitude problems.  Their best defensive player, DeAngelo Hall continues to have Vick’s back, wearing a “Free Mike Vick” t-shirt under his jersey and promising to visit the convicted dogfighter in prison.  Having to manage personalities that still don’t appreciate the gravity of Mike Vick’s actions can’t be very appealing to Pete Carroll. 

So Pete Carroll finds himself at the proverbial fork in the road. 

He can continue to coach USC, racking up Pac-10 championships, Rose Bowl victories, and probably another national title or two.  He could finish out a career, putting him among the all-time greats in college football coaching history. 

Otherwise, Carroll has the opportunity to resurrect a franchise from absolute rock bottom.  He can pack up and head east to Atlanta and all it has to offer.  Sure, he will get the power, big payday, and the title of General Manager.  He also inherits all of the aforementioned headaches. 

Carroll needs to evaluate if there any reason to believe that he can turn that team around before Arthur Blank runs out of patience again.  The chances of raising the Titanic that is the Atlanta Falcons, however, I would put at slim and none.