3 things we learned about Desmond Ridder in his second start

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Dec 24, 2022; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder (4) throws as Baltimore Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen (6) applies pressure during the second half at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

2) Desmond Ridder needs to get into a rhythm when passing the ball

A similarity that Desmond Ridder’s first two starts had were early incompletions. He was never able to get into a groove passing the ball and much of that is due to poor play-calling to open the game. Arthur Smith would probably be the first to say that it wasn’t ideal to call those deep shots early on.

Outside of the first play of the game which was a push-pass to Olamide Zaccheaus, it took until four minutes into the second quarter for Ridder to complete a pass.

Once he was able to get some completions, then he got into a rhythm that allowed him to pass with confidence. It all happened on the drive that ended in Drake London’s fumble. Ridder was able to complete a few passes and get into the flow of the game.

Going forward, the Falcons need to give him more chances to complete some easy passes. Even running some no-huddle to start the game will allow him to just see and not think so much.

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