The Falcons have benched quarterback Desmond Ridder and will start Taylor Heinicke against the Vikings on Sunday, coach Arthur Smith announced on Wednesday.
“So just for this week, just with all the variables, just kinda considering everything the last 72 hours and what we feel is best for this week against Minnesota, Taylor will play this week,” Smith said.
Smith and the Falcons benched starting quarterback Desmond Ridder at halftime in Sunday’s 28–23 loss to Tennessee after the offense punted five times, lost a fumble and kicked one field goal in seven first half possessions.
