When the sun shines into Mercedes Benz Stadium and the roof opens, there’s a different atmosphere in the air. Fresh air, fall breezes, and bright sunlight envelop the field and the stands, creating a unique and invigorating ambiance. It’s as if you’ve stepped into a slice of college football in the heart of the sleek, professional NFL. And it was under this brilliant backdrop that Desmond Ridder, once a college football sensation, showcased his potential as a professional quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons.
A Rocky Start
However, just last week, Ridder found himself on the hot seat, with Falcons fans growing increasingly frustrated with the team’s performance. The entire team, including the coaching staff, was under scrutiny. Ridder’s early season struggles were a cause for concern. He had as many interceptions as touchdowns, and his decision making and accuracy, especially under pressure, left much to be desired. The Falcons’ faithful had grown weary of hoping for better days.
The “Everything But” Team
For the first four weeks of the season, the Falcons seemed like an “Everything But” team, lacking a reliable quarterback. The defense showcased its potential by stifling opponents, and offensive weapons like Drake London, Kyle Pitts, and Tyler Allgeier showed promise. Still, the unbalanced attack and reluctance to pass the ball were noticeable. Ridder’s stats placed him in the middle of the pack among NFL quarterbacks.
A Turning Point
However, something changed on Sunday, something that could transform the Falcons from an “Everything But” team into an “Everything And” team. After a disappointing three and out to start the game, Ridder led the Falcons on a 75 yard, seven play touchdown drive, which showcased his versatility and determination.
A Career Defining Moment
Late in the game, with 1:54 remaining and the Falcons trailing by one, Ridder faced his first career defining moment. In the huddle, he urged his teammates to avoid penalties and secure the win. He then took advantage of a soft Texans defense, connecting with his receivers and calmly marching the team downfield. A 23-yard strike to Drake London set up the game-winning field goal.
Ridder’s final drive statistics were impressive: 5 for 5 for 44 yards, one scramble for five yards, and two kneel downs to bleed the clock and set up the game winner. It was a remarkable display of poise and precision in a high pressure situation.
Building Confidence
Ridder acknowledged that this was one of his first true two minute drives and emphasized staying calm, collected, and not forcing anything. His performance in that crucial drive provided tangible evidence of his abilities. Falcons’ head coach Arthur Smith hailed it as a “great fourth quarter comeback.”
Looking Ahead
The Falcons now face the Commanders and a crucial road game against division rival Tampa Bay in the coming weeks. Both games are winnable, especially if the fourth quarter versions of the Falcons and Ridder continue to show up. While Atlanta is far from competing for anything beyond a division title, it’s a step in the right direction.
Conclusion…
In the world of professional football, moments of brilliance can change the trajectory of a season. Desmond Ridder’s clutch performance against the Texans has raised hopes for Falcons fans. The question now is whether he can sustain this momentum and lead the team to more victories. If not, major changes may loom in the offseason, potentially resulting in job losses throughout the organization.
As the Falcons and Ridder embark on this journey, the NFL season unfolds, and fans (including myself) eagerly await the answer to the pivotal question: Can Desmond Ridder keep the Falcons flying high???
