The Atlanta Falcons (3-3) have won two games in a row, and will host NFC South Division rival Carolina Panthers (3-4) this weekend at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (Sun 1:00 pm)
If the Falcons can pull out a victory against Carolina, the Birds will boast an above .500 record for the first time since finishing, 10-6 in 2017.
But if the Falcons are going to get above and hopefully stay above .500, they will need improved play from former 1st-round WR Calvin Ridley.
After trading away Julio Jones in the off-season, most expected Ridley to register large numbers for the Falcons, as the true No. 1 receiving option for QB Matt Ryan.
But through five games, (DNP vs NYJ) Ridley has only 31 receptions for a meager 281 yards, with 2 TDs.
His struggles have been well debated both locally and nationally. Combine his lack of production with the fact that Ridley is playing for a new contract, and the critics are getting louder and louder.
When Steve Wyche joined Dukes and Bell for his weekly sit down, he was quick to tell the guys that he “knows the talent and the ability to be a true No. 1 is there.”
However, Wyche also had this to say about the consistency of Ridley so far in 2021.
“He’s been hot and cold this year”, said Wyche during his chat with D&B.
Lastly Steve told D&B, “I’m not ready to bail on him yet.”
With a season that can still go in either direction, the Atlanta Falcons, Head Coach Arthur Smith, and QB Matt Ryan are definitely not ready to bail on Ridley either.
