Head coach Arthur Smith confirmed that Desmond Ridder will be the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons for the rest of the season. Ridder had been benched in favor of Taylor Heinicke for the two games leading up to the bye week, but Heinicke's performance was not impressive. Ridder has shown better efficiency and rushing ability, although turnovers have been an issue. Smith hopes that Ridder's time on the bench and his confidence in replacing Heinicke will lead to improvement.