The Atlanta Falcons were defeated on a last-second field goal by the Carolina Panthers in Week 15. Even with a potential playoff spot on the line, this team can’t seem to get out of its own way.
On Sunday, the Falcons had a one-point lead and the ball in the fourth quarter when quarterback Desmond Ridder made one of his most ill-advised throws of the season. Ridder forced a ball into coverage that was intercepted and the Panthers drove down for the game-winning kick as time expired.
Head coach Arthur Smith was asked whether or not the team would make a quarterback change heading into Week 16 and did not have a clear answer. According to Smith, the Falcons are still working through the decision, per team reporter Tori McElhaney.
Arthur Smith said that nothing is final re: a decision at QB and who will start moving forward, said the Falcons are still working through making that decision.
— Tori McElhaney (@tori_mcelhaney) December 18, 2023
Ridder started the first eight games before getting benched for backup Taylor Heincike. After injuring his hamstring at the end of the team’s loss to the Arizona Cardinals, Ridder got his job back. It sounds like Heinicke could take over again, even though Smith has previously stated he did not want to play musical chairs at the QB position.
Watch Smith’s comments on the quarterback situation, as shared by ESPN’s Michael Rothstein below.
Falcons HC Arthur Smith said he hasn’t finalized a quarterback decision for Sunday against Indianapolis yet. pic.twitter.com/eWsMn6bBXq
— Michael Rothstein (@mikerothstein) December 18, 2023
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