Atlanta Falcons Get Just Enough From QB Desmond Ridder to Top New York Jets
Desmond Ridder did not cost the Atlanta Falcons the game on Sunday. In fact, even in a pedestrian day, he really was the difference in a win, statistically speaking.
Ridder only threw for 121 yards (without sack yardage included) in a disgusting game weather-wise against the New York Jets on Sunday, but his one passing score to MyCole Pruitt proved to be the difference in a 13-8 win.
In reality, nothing really worked for the Falcons offense on Sunday. Running back Bijan Robinson was bottled up for just 53 yards on 18 carries, and when he is unable to get going, the Atlanta offense suffers.
Dec 3, 2023; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder (9) throws the ball during the first quarter against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
© Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
To this point in the season, it's evident that the Falcons will not get enough out of the quarterback position to be able to win a shootout. This offense has to operate through the rushing game, but a win is a win, and Atlanta is now a full game up in the NFC South at 6-6 over the New Orleans Saints.
Sunday may have been another subpar game from Ridder, although some of that can be blamed on the weather. Still, he did enough to get the Falcons to a win, and they have now won back-to-back games with a division date against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers looming next week.
Even if it's ugly, these wins are important for Atlanta as it tries to hold on for a playoff berth. Sunday's game was one it should have won, and it did that, even if it wasn't a pristine performance.
Ridder is technically responsible for that win, even if it wasn't pleasing to the eyes. That may be all the Falcons can ask of him in a lot of weeks, but as long as the wins keep coming, there's no need to complain too much.
