Mistake-filled game should end Desmond Ridder experiment in Atlanta
The Desmond Ridder experience in Atlanta has run its course.
The Falcons lost to the Commanders 24-16 on Sunday and Ridder was the biggest culprit. Atlanta had no business losing a game it outgained Washington 402-193 and held the Commanders to 20% on third down.
It did, however, thanks to a frustrating game by Ridder.
He finished 28-of-47 for 307 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions, all of which came in the second half.
The first came when Ridder stared down his receiver and Commanders defensive back Kendall Fuller.
His second was a perplexing throw that was easily intercepted by Benjamin St-Juste on a third-and-goal in an eight-point game.
Atlanta's final drive was snuffed out when Ridder threw behind wide receiver Drake London. Jamin Davis made the interception, the first of his career, ending a promising Falcons drive that reached Washington's 34-yard line.
After Sunday's game, Ridder is 130-of-203 (64%) for 1,380 yards, six touchdowns and six interceptions this season.
Atlanta signed backup Taylor Heinicke to a two-year, $14M contract during the offseason. He filled in admirably for the Commanders the past two seasons, starting 24 games.
The Falcons are in the thick of the NFC South division race but need more from their quarterback to have a legitimate shot of winning the division for the first time since 2016.
The offense, with former first-rounders including London, Kyle Pitts and Bijan Robinson, has not been good enough with Ridder at the helm.
Head coach Arthur Smith is approaching a point of no return with Ridder and might have to make a change at quarterback to get the most out of his offense and avoid squandering more games it should easily win.
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