"Desmond Ridder Steps Up as Falcons' Starter with Heinicke Sidelined"

Desmond Ridder is set to start as quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons in their final regular season game due to Taylor Heinicke's inactivity from an ankle injury. The Falcons' playoff hopes are contingent on a win against the Saints and a Panthers victory over the Buccaneers. Despite Heinicke's solid performance against the Colts, the team's recent loss to the Bears has put their postseason chances in jeopardy. Ridder's performance in this game could influence his standing with the team in the offseason.