Call it a controversy. Call it whatever you’d like. The state of the quarterback position for the Atlanta Falcons is now in flux after Desmond Ridder sat out the second half of the team’s 28-23 loss to the Titans on Sunday. Backup Taylor Heinicke came into the contest and sparked the offense but Coach Arthur Smith remained noncommittal Monday in naming him the new starter.
Dukes & Bell had a simple message following the game: “Play The Best Guy.”
The team currently sits at 4-4 with the Minnesota Vikings coming to town on Sunday without their MVP-caliber QB in Kirk Cousins. Usually that would mean a huge advantage for the home team, but Will Levis’ breakout four touchdown performance verse a talented Falcons defense proves otherwise. Levis was able to burn the defense for deep passes all afternoon long and the offense was never able to catch up.
Heinicke finished 12/21 for 175 yards and a touchdown. He also only was sacked one time while Ridder was taken down five times in the first half. The most dramatic difference, however, was his ability to lead the offense down the field in a smooth and collected manor. The offense looked crisper and more confident under Heinicke, but it remains to be seen if he will be given the reigns on Sunday.