Falcons’ fans have been patiently waiting to see the new-look Atlanta team in action, and the time is near as they will open up the season on Sunday when they host the Carolina Panthers. Whether it is Desmond Ridder taking over at quarterback, the addition of rookie Bijan Robinson, the return of Kyle Pitts, or the multiple defensive pieces added to the puzzle, fans are ready to get their first taste of what this season may be.
On Wednesday, during his conversation with Atlanta Falcons reporter Tori McElhaney, Jon Chuckery wanted to get insight on one area in particular, which was just how many pass attempts we may see from Ridder.
“If I give you the number 25 and a half, do you think Desmond Ridder throws more passes or throws fewer passes than 25 and a half,” Chuckery asked. In response, McElhaney shared that she believes the second-year QB would come in under that number largely in part to what the Falcons may be able to establish with their ground game.
“I do think that the Falcons have something really special in terms of what they’re able to do when they run the ball, and I don’t think they’re going to get too far away from that,” McElhaney explained to the evening host, referencing the performance of Tyler Allgeier last season and the potential threat of the second-year back sharing the backfield with Robinson this season.
As McElhaney continued with her thoughts on the matter, she added one simple fact: “A young quarterback's best friend is a solid run game."