Falcons bench Desmond Ridder after horrible start to 2023
After a start to the season to forget, the Atlanta Falcons have benched second-year quarterback Desmond Ridder. Newly-signed quarterback Taylor Heinicke will start in the Falcons Week 9 matchup Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings.
Ridder started his first full season as a starter ice cold. He’s only six touchdowns to six interceptions in eight games. On top of that, the former Cincinnati quarterback leads the league in turnovers with 12, equaling out to 1.5 turnovers per game.
Falcons head coach Arthur Smith announced the change in QB on Wednesday.
“Just for this week, just with all the variables. Just considering everything the last 72 hours and what we feel is best for this week for us against Minnesota, Taylor will play,” Smith said.
In just one half, Heinicke outperformed Ridder substantially, posting 175 passing yards with 12 completions and one touchdown–all while turning over the ball zero times. Ridder, who cleared concussion protocol, will likely serve as the No. 2 in the short-term behind Heinicke.
“We’re not looking at the long-term right now,” Smith said. “Right now, we’re focusing on Minnesota, obviously, with Taylor. There were a lot of variables (when deciding to switch from Ridder). … Really, our focus is short-term and what gives us the best chance Sunday with everything being considered.”
“You get into moments in the season where things come up,” Smith said. “(Heinicke) is a legitimate pro. That’s why we like him. He goes in there, and it’s not an easy job coming out of the bathroom and being told, ‘Hey, here’s the ball. Go play.’ But that’s what makes Taylor who he is and why we have a special appreciation for him.”
Heinicke will man the Falcons offense on Sunday against the Vikings, but in the long term, Ridder could earn the starting spot back. The Falcons will kick off their matchup against the Vikings at 1:00 p.m. EST on Nov. 5 in Atlanta.
***
Subscribe to Vendetta’s Twitch
Subscribe to Vendetta’s YouTube
Check out the Vendetta Shop
Click here for more NFL content
