Cincinnati Football: Desmond Ridder tosses game-winning touchdown in debut

Despite trailing for most of the second half, Desmond Ridder found a way to propel the Atlanta Falcons to a 27-23 win in his thrilling preseason debut on Friday night. The former Bearcats quarterback connected with fellow rookie Jared Bernhardt on fourth down to score the game-winning TD with less than two minutes left.

Ridder escaped the pass rush just enough to give himself time to find Bernhardt in the end zone and secure a comeback win to start his career. It was clear that Ridder felt comfortable under center and his teammates seemed to have confidence in the rookie as well, which should only grow as he adjusts to the league.

"Following the win, Ridder reacted to the game-winning play per the Atlanta Falcons: “It was man with one high safety. We had a fade on the back side. I progressed off it and felt an edge so I rolled out to the right. I saw it was a one on one matchup. Gave my guy a chance and he obviously came down with it. A huge play for us.”"

Cincinnati Football: Desmond Ridder tosses game-winning touchdown in debut

After replacing Marcus Mariota early in the second quarter, Ridder hit tight end Parker Hesse for a short touchdown and helped the Falcons reach field goal range to tie the game at halftime. He completed 10/22 attempts and racked up 103 passing yards, 59 rushing yards, two touchdowns and 9.8 yards per rush in the win.

Mariota and Ridder are expected to continue competing for the starting spot throughout the preseason, which resumes next week against the New York Jets before returning home for a matchup with the Jacksonville Jaguars. There’s still a long way to go for Ridder to secure the job but his debut was certainly a success.

Cincinnati Football: Desmond Ridder tosses game-winning touchdown in debut

"Ridder discussed his relationship with Mariota via the Atlanta Falcons: “He’s been a big brother to me. Any time I need something, whether that’s at practice or off the field, he’s right there for anything I need. For him to have all this experience in the league and be able to share it with me is just a blessing.”"

Several other former Cincinnati players recently appeared in the preseason as well. Darrian Beavers dominated for the New York Giants yesterday, while Jerome Ford, Sauce Gardner and Myjai Sanders debuted tonight. A trio of Indianapolis Colts will hit the field tomorrow as Curtis Brooks, Alec Pierce and Michael Young join the action.

Cincinnati Football: Desmond Ridder ready for NFL preseason debut in Detroit

After cementing an unforgettable legacy with the Bearcats, Desmond Ridder is ready to start his next chapter with the Atlanta F...