Arthur Smiths comments on the quarterback position following Week 15 loss to Carolina
Title: Falcons Stick With Ridder as Starting Quarterback Despite Challenging Performance
Atlanta Falcons’ quarterback situation has taken an unexpected turn as they turned to Taylor Heinicke in the weeks leading up to their Week 11 bye. However, Heinicke suffered a hamstring injury during their Week 10 loss to the Cardinals, paving the way for Ridder to replace him.
The Falcons have expressed a desire to avoid constant changes at the quarterback position, which is why they decided to have Ridder finish out the year after the bye week. However, the team’s head coach, Smith, emphasized that this decision is not set in stone and could change depending on future performances.
In his first start against the Panthers, Ridder showcased moments of promise but ultimately had a challenging outing. He managed to accumulate 152 passing yards and threw one touchdown. However, his late-game interception set up the Panthers’ game-winning drive, leading to a disappointing 9-7 loss for the Falcons.
Reflecting on his performance, Ridder admitted to trying to do too much and acknowledged his mistake. This introspection shows maturity and a willingness to learn from his errors.
Ridder’s season statistics paint a mixed picture as he has struggled with turnovers. With 10 interceptions and 11 fumbles, ball security remains a pressing concern for the young quarterback. His mistakes are particularly evident in the red zone, where he has committed five turnovers, and inside the Falcons’ 20-yard line, where he has two turnovers this season.
The Falcons’ decision to stick with Ridder as the starting quarterback may raise eyebrows among fans and pundits. The team will be closely monitoring his performance in the upcoming games to assess if this decision is sustainable. As the Falcons continue to strive for success, addressing turnover issues will be critical for the team’s future prospects.
Looking forward, the Falcons face an uphill battle as they seek to bounce back from their recent loss and solidify their position in the highly competitive league. Only time will tell if the coaching staff’s decision to entrust Ridder with the reins of the offense will pay off in the long run. The team will continue to work with Ridder, providing the necessary guidance and support he needs to improve and succeed.
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