Falcons in Potential Quarterback Controversy as Heinicke Outshines Struggling Ridder

Falcons' Coach Arthur Smith declines to confirm starting quarterback for upcoming game against the Vikings after backup Taylor Heinicke delivers strong performance, sparking debate on likely change.

• Falcons' Coach Arthur Smith is facing the most difficult challenge of his Atlanta Falcons coaching career as the team's offense ranks 28th in the NFL while quarterback Desmond Ridder has shown improvement with seven turnovers in the last three games.
• Ridder's health is a concern, as he left the Titans game due to a potential head injury and his subsequent mental and emotional condition is under consideration for the selection of the starting quarterback for the upcoming game against the Vikings.
• Backup quarterback Taylor Heinicke outshone Ridder during the Tennessee game, prompting Coach Smith to consider him as potentially a better choice for the team for the rest of the season.
• Heinicke's superior performance has sparked a potential quarterback controversy within the team. Smith is weighing whether to start Heinicke and face ensuing controversy or to risk Ridder's health and performance.
• The Falcon's defensive line suffered a significant loss with Grady Jarrett being out for the season due to a torn ACL. This comes amidst other injuries, putting further pressure on the team to perform in the upcoming games.

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