The Falcons’ fourth-quarter rally against the Titans came up short and they fell to 4-4 on the season following Sunday’s 28-23 loss. Even though the team didn’t come away with a win, a problem that has plagued the offense all season might finally have a solution.
Fans got their first look at quarterback Taylor Heinicke, who made the most of his opportunity to fill in for Desmond Ridder. After scoring just three points in the first half, Atlanta’s offense put up 20 points with Heinicke under center in the second half.
Obviously, it wasn’t enough, but we do see an opportunity for this Falcons offense to take a step forward with Heinicke — if he gets the chance. With that being said, check out our studs and duds from Week 8.
Stud: Drake London
Drake London took off when Taylor Heinicke stepped in for Desmond Ridder. The second-year receiver only ended the game with 55 yards but was forced to sit out a large portion of the second half due to a groin injury. Had he not been injured, the outcome might have been different. It remains to be seen how long the receiver will be out, if at all, but he has shown to be a crucial part of the passing game when he’s on the field.
Dud: Desmond Ridder
Atlanta sat Ridder down in the second half of Sunday’s game. While Arthur Smith said it was due to head injury, Ridder was cleared shortly after coming out but still did not return to the field. Smith failed to commit to Heinicke after the game, but we will have to see how the week plays out. Ridder ended the game with just 71 passing yards and another fumble lost. The second-year QB leads the NFL with 12 turnovers this season.
Stud: Taylor Heinicke
Taylor Heinicke brought new life to a dwindling Falcons offense in the second half. Right away, it was clear that Heinicke could operate this offense at a more efficient level than what we have seen with Ridder. There were many times when Heinicke placed the football in spots that Ridder has not consistently hit this season. The veteran signal-caller also has a good understanding of when to put velocity on the ball and when not to. Heinicke went 12-for-21 with 175 passing yards and a touchdown.
Dud: Entire defensive secondary
In Will Levis’ first NFL start, he cooked Atlanta’s secondary. Levis threw for four touchdowns, including three to wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. You can’t pin the blame on one particular player since several different Falcons defenders got burned by Levis and Hopkins. If the defense prevents just one of those four touchdown passes, the Falcons probably win. This unit should bounce back in Week 9 against Vikings rookie QB Jaren Hall.
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