Desmond Ridder Replaces Taylor Heinicke, Atlanta Falcons Fall Short at Arizona Cardinals in Kyler Murray's Comeback
The Atlanta Falcons entered the week dubbing Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals their "Super Bowl," but still came up short inside State Farm Stadium, falling 25-23.
A late touchdown run from former starting quarterback turned backup Desmond Ridder, who replaced injured starter Taylor Heinicke in the fourth quarter after a hamstring injury, gave the Falcons a 23-22 lead with just over two minutes to play.
But Cardinals signal caller Kyler Murray, making his first start this season after suffering a torn ACL last year, guided Arizona down the field for a game-winning 23-yard field goal as time expired.
The Falcons carried a 14-12 lead into the half but found themselves trailing 22-17 in the waning minutes of the fourth quarter.
Ridder led an eight-play, 42-yard drive to give the Falcons the lead, but Murray responded, sparked by a 13-yard scramble on 3rd and 10 and 33-yard completion to tight end Trey McBride that all but sealed Arizona's win.
Nov 12, 2023; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) is chased by Atlanta Falcons linebacker Bud Dupree (48) in the first half at State Farm Stadium
Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Atlanta's now lost three consecutive games entering the bye week, and coach Arthur Smith will be left re-assessing a quarterback situation that remains up for grabs.
Heinicke completed eight of 15 passes for 55 yards and a touchdown and added 33 yards on four scrambles. Ridder was effective, completing four of six passes for 39 yards along with 11 yards on three carries.
Atlanta's offense had tremendous success on the ground, taking 41 carries for 184 yards. Rookie running back Bijan Robinson saw 22 attempts for 95 yards.
In his return to action, Murray went 19 of 32 for 249 yards, no touchdowns and an interception along with six runs for 33 yards.
The Falcons will return to action in two week's time, hosting the New Orleans Saints at p.m. EST.
