Taylor Heinicke has provided excellent quarterback performance in a pinch for the Washington Commanders before, and the Atlanta Falcons (4-4) got their first taste of it in Sunday’s 28-23 loss to the Tennessee Titans (3-4). Heinicke, who had not appeared in Atlanta’s first seven games, took over the offense in the second half with the Falcons behind 14-3 as starter Desmond Ridder entered concussion protocol.
During Heinicke’s six drives, the Falcons scored two touchdowns and kicked two field goals, totaling 253 yards of offense. Heinicke finished 12 of 21 throws for 175 yards, one touchdown, no interceptions, and one sack. After the game, Falcons coach Arthur Smith showed trust in Heinicke and expressed satisfaction with his entire performance. “Did his job,” Smith said “That’s why he’s here. We’ve got a lot of faith in Taylor.”
Heinicke played the previous three seasons with the Commanders, starting 24 regular-season games and appearing in one postseason game. He completed 64% of his throws for 5,415 yards, 33 touchdowns, and 21 picks.
Washington brought in quarterbacks to replace Heinicke in 2021 and 2022, first Ryan FitzPatrick and then Carson Wentz. During this time, Heinicke stated that he did everything he could to assist him and learnt to always be prepared; after all, that is the responsibility of a backup.
So, when Ridder went down, Heinicke was at ease and confident… and he nearly led Atlanta to a road victory. “It’s the same as it has been for the last two years,” Heinicke added. “This isn’t unfamiliar territory to me. This has been my life for the past two years.
They came me here to assist Des, and if he falls for any reason, go in there and do it.”
The question now is whether Heinicke will start next week – Smith said he’ll examine Ridder’s health during the week, and it appears the Falcons will continue to start Ridder if he’s healthy. Heinicke feels the same way, applauding Ridder’s progress while adding that he’ll enter the week the same way he has the previous eight.
“Oh, no,” Heinicke responded when asked if he believes he has done enough to begin next week. “This is Desmond’s group.” He’s been outstanding all season. Obviously, there have been a few hiccups here and there, but he’s developing every week and working hard. “That is ultimately Arthur’s decision, but we will return tomorrow and carry on as usual.” Second-year quarterback Sam Howell led the Commanders (3-5) to a 38-31 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles (7-1) on Sunday, going 39 of 52 for 397 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception.
The Falcons (4-4) will visit the Minnesota Vikings (4-4) next Sunday at 1 p.m. EST, with questions about Ridder’s health and Heinicke’s starting potential remaining unanswered. Washington will also start off at 1 p.m. EST, going to New England to face the Patriots (2-6) at Gillette Stadium.
Leave a Reply