AA Learn more about in-home care options for your loved ones

Reactions

Like

20

Interesting

1

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- Desmond Ridder was in the Atlanta Falcons quarterback meetings the past two game weeks, and while he tried to help, he also found himself doing something else: learning.

Ridder, who began the season as Atlanta's starting quarterback only to be demoted for two games before taking over as starter again, tried to approach everything the same.

But being the backup to Taylor Heinicke offered a new perspective. In some ways, it allowed him to observe and see things almost the way a coach would. It allowed him to process day-to-day activities differently because unlike last season when he was the backup to Marcus Mariota for the first three months of the season, this time he had the experience of being an NFL starter, too.

"It kind of like clicked in my head," Ridder said. "Like something that might be a little different or something that might help you. So just, it wasn't going up there saying, 'Hey, this needs to be this, this needs to be this, I'm not comfortable with this.'

"But more, just, tweaking little things, whatever they may be."

It's part of Ridder's development process as he enters a critical point early in his career. The next seven games will determine a lot about Ridder's future as a starting quarterback. If he plays well and continues to improve, it's reasonable to believe Atlanta will continue forward with him.

If he doesn't, it'll give Atlanta the answer it needs as to whether to enter the free agency or draft conversations this offseason.

In 12 starts between 2022 and 2023, Ridder completed 64.8% of his passes for 2,448 yards, eight touchdowns and six interceptions. He had, though, posted a higher completion percentage this season (65.4%) than his rookie year, and averaged more yards per game (193.3) and more yards per attempt (7.1).

Now he's back in the role again, with some tweaks: speaking up more -- a lesson many quarterbacks around the league have learned and implemented throughout their careers -- and getting back to himself.

"It's going out there playing free," Ridder said. "[If you're] going out there and playing with a sense of not to mess things up. When you do that, you start to play slow, start to second-guess."

While Ridder wouldn't say he began to second-guess himself, he did say he began to question other things, which left him playing hesitant and slower than he wanted. Add the turnovers -- six interceptions, six lost fumbles -- and it made sense to offer him a different perspective for a few weeks.

Falcons coach Arthur Smith said Monday he felt a "reset would be very beneficial for him."

Smith was happy with how Ridder handled it -- he was active in meetings and helped Heinicke prepare to be the starter against the Minnesota Vikings and Arizona Cardinals -- and saw a quarterback perhaps with a full complement of confidence back.

Ridder can also take solace that he's not the first quarterback to go through it. Former New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, a future Hall of Famer, was benched early in his career and rebounded well. Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was benched in-game during his rookie year. Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith was briefly benched in his second season with the New York Jets for Michael Vick in 2014 before regaining the starting job (although by 2015 he no longer had the starting gig at all).

There's also a bunch of young quarterbacks who were benched and never made it back.

Ridder said multiple people around the Falcons building talked with him about young quarterbacks who'd been benched and then returned with success (he didn't say which quarterbacks were specifically mentioned). They did so, he said, to remind him he wasn't done as a quarterback.

"I just took that and ran with it," Ridder said. "Just knowing that, you know, my opportunity is gonna come again. And like I said, when it does, I'll just take full advantage of it."

Whether that's joining along a holiday Christmas carol or playing in the "snow" in the metro, getting into that holiday fun can be joyous for friends and family.

ATLANTA — Season's greetings! With the year coming to a close in a few weeks, people are getting into the holiday spirit with adventures around metro Atlanta.

Whether that's joining along a Christmas carol or playing in the "snow" in the metro, getting into that holiday fun can be joyous for friends, family and loved ones.

Here's a guide to how you can break out those jingle bells with these events.

Ice skating

Skate the Station is back as an Atlanta staple! It will be in season until Jan. 15.

Families will need to keep an eye on the station's social media sites or check your 11Alive local weather forecast before going to the skating rink since it is weather-permitting.

For a list of the rink's peak times, click here to avoid the rush.

It's time to Skate the Sky at the Ponce City Market rink. Residents can overlook Ponce De Leon Avenue, the BeltLine and the historic Old Fourth Ward on the rooftop.

Those who enjoyed Skyline Park or Nine Mile Station will not need to buy tickets and can walk on over.

Click here to buy tickets.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Roof at Ponce City Market (@poncecityroof)

A Winter Wonderland is right in Midtown with The Rink at Park Tavern.

Residents can not only enjoy a leisurely ride on their skates but can also get skating lessons. Guests will be able to enjoy the views of Piedmont Park and the skyline.

The rink will be open Mondays through Fridays from 4:30 p.m. until midnight and Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. until midnight.

Guests will need to buy tickets to enter the rink. Click here to learn more.

This rink lives in a shopping experience in Alpharetta. Officials said that the rink is Rockefeller-inspired.

Those who want to attend should book a time slot ahead of time, even though walk-ups are welcome.

The rink is open on Mondays through Fridays from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.

It will be open until Jan. 15. Click the link here and enjoy a live camera of guests skating at the rink.

Not only can you ice skate at Lake Lanier, but you can also enjoy the "snow" at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands.

It will be open up until February, according to its online calendar.

Instead of driving up north to get the snow, residents can take the drive to Buford and go snow tubbing, enjoy throwing snowballs and ride amusement rides. Learn more here.

Christmas light displays

It's a holiday tradition loved by many! Zoo Atlanta will be showcasing its illuminated wildlife while residents view the animals.

There are also some holiday activities like roasting marshmallows around the fire and drinking some hot cocoa to warm the holiday spirit.

Zoo officials said that they will feature new lanterns and experiences this year. The holiday lights will be up until January 14, 2024.

All guests have to do is buy tickets to the zoo to live in the jolly experience.

The exhibit, located in the historic Old Fourth Ward, offers two Winter Wonderland experiences for its guests.

Officials said that guests will be transported to Santa's luxurious winter palace on their 360-degree displays and see a show of the glowing Northern Lights.

Guests will also be able to enjoy a selfie with Santa, live holiday music and more. Click here to learn about the experience.

Tis the Season to be jolly! Six Flags Over Georgia is back with its round of holiday fun and it's happening until January 3, 2024!

“With dazzling lights and decorative displays, exhilarating rides and a variety of seasonal delights, we aim to create cherished memories for our guests that will last a lifetime," said Park President David Zellner.

Officials with the amusement park said several new live shows and offerings will be in the works for the magical wintertime event.

The Atlanta Botanical Garden is in it's 13th year of presenting the Garden Lights, Holiday Nights.

Each year, the garden takes its fan favorites and new installations-- and illuminates the displays in lights.

Garden officials said the exhibit will shine nightly through January 14, 2024.

Click here to learn about tickets and available dates.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Atlanta Botanical Garden (@atlbotanical)

Holiday pop-up bars

Atlanta's popular holiday bar is back with its over-the-top décor, twinkling lights and more!

Residents can enjoy festive cocktails or mocktails with some holiday bites. The bar is open on Wednesdays until Thursdays from 5 p.m. to midnight.

The bar is also open on Fridays and Saturdays until 1 a.m. Guests can reserve and walk in for the experience.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Blind Elf Holiday Pop Up Bar (@theblindpigparlourbar)

This burger joint has a different themed holiday pop up bar every year. Located in Buford, residents can enjoy a burger and some holiday fun.

The pop-up bar will be open from Dec. 1 until Dec. 31.

Guests can also enjoy holiday music and much more. Learn more about the bar here.

The Grinch stole Christmas at the Mercantile Social holiday pop-up bar! The restaurant has drinks inspired by the green creature in Alpharetta.

Mercantile Social said a few dishes and drinks could make your heart grow a few sizes bigger.

The pop-up bar is open now at the restaurant. For the hours, click here.

Biltong Bar is getting into the Christmas spirit by honoring one of Santa's reindeer.

The bar is only taking walk-ins but residents can enjoy the pop-up starting at noon every day.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Biltong Bar (@biltongbar)

Guest can visit a snowy winter getaway at the Wonderland at Willow Bar to Tis' the Season!

The bar will feature ski lodge-inspired igloos, lights and more, according to the owners.

Food and cocktails are also inspired by the ski lodge theme. Learn more here.

Christmas Tree Farms

An online and in-store Christmas tree shopping experience! If you are one of those who are finally putting up their holiday trees and want a real tree, this shop, located on Briarcliff Road could help.

Tradition Trees also offers services for crews to dazzle residents' homes with lighting specialists.

Little Rob celebrates 31 years in the Christmas Tree business. According to its website, selling Christmas Trees started as a way to fund a rock climbing trip and became a metro Atlanta tradition.

It is located near the former site of the Buckhead Saloon, which burned down remains are still standing. It will be open from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. until Christmas Day.

The business is offering Fraser Fir Christmas Tree this year. It provides seasonal updates on its Facebook page.

Big John's has three locations in Buckhead, Brookhaven and Roswell. Families can find a tree and decorations to make it more festive at the business, according to the owner.

The family-owned business celebrates 74 years in the Atlanta Christmas tradition.

They also different wreaths and services, including tree delivery and installation, if you sign up for the service.

Each of their locations are open daily from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. Click here to learn more about the family-owned business trees.

Credit: neirfy

Photo: Thinkstock

The farm, located in Stockbridge, offers more than tree shopping to give an ultimate holly experience.

Their website states families can enjoy hot apple cider, Santa visits, farm friends and a fun zone for kids.

Farmers have a variety of trees that residents can choose from, including Blue Ice Cypress, Virginia Pines and more. They also snow-flocked trees. The farm will be open until Dec. 16, with hours on weekdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and weekend hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Do you have a story idea or something on your mind you want to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at [email protected].

MLB Rumors: A juicy trade proposal to land Mike Trout with hometown Phillies

The Los Angeles Angels are one Shohei Ohtani decision away from facing a serious period of introspection as a franchise. If the two-way megastar does depart for greener pastures, that could bring Mike Trout's future into sharp focus.

Trout, a three-time MVP and 11-time All-Star, has met the same regular season misfortune as Ohtani over the last six years. Los Angeles simply hasn't been able to field a competitive team. Trout has maintained his loyalty to the franchise and he has a full no-trade clause, but Ohtani's departure could push him (and the Angels) to consider alternate destinations.

The cross-town Los Angeles Dodgers have been floated as a potential landing spot, but Trout hails from the City of Brotherly Love. The Philadelphia Phillies have been unafraid of splashy acquisitions in recent years and the team needs another outfielder. Bryce Harper is making the shift to first base full time and Johan Rojas' offensive ineptitude in the playoffs raised serious questions about his immediate future.

Trout's age, recent injury history, and contract all provide adequate reason to pause. He's due an annual average of $35.5 million through 2030, his age-38 season. The Phillies already owe major long-term money to Bryce Harper and Trea Turner, not to mention the recently re-signed Aaron Nola. But, by that same token, it's Trout. When he's healthy, he's still one of the best hitters in baseball — .263/.367/.490 with 18 home runs and 44 RBIs in 82 games (308 AB) last season.

A proposal from MLB.com scribe Anthony Castrovince involves sending Nick Castellanos and Justin Crawford, the Phillies' No. 3 prospect, to Los Angeles in exchange for Trout. That feels like a reasonable price for the legendary outfielder. There is undeniable injury risk tied to Trout, but Castellanos disappeared in the Phillies' NLCS defeat and only one top-five prospect is hardly beyond reason.

The Angels get another powerful bat to anchor the middle of their lineup post-trade and the Phillies bet on the upside of adding a three-time MVP to a lineup that already features Harper, Turner, Kyle Schwarber, and J.T. Realmuto.

Two Saints listed as OUT for Sunday vs. Atlanta

New Orleans Saints

Five New Orleans Saints players were listed on Friday's Injury Report for the team's Week 12 game against the Atlanta Falcons during the 2023 NFL season.

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

Sign Up for Saints Injury Report alerts, plus news and special offers

Name*

First Name

Last Name

Email:*

ZIP Code*

OPTIONAL: Want to Be in That Number?

Sign me up for the Saints Season Ticket Waitlist! Waitlist Members are the first to know when Season Tickets become available.

Related Links

ATLANTA FALCONS

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. – Bijan Robinson had 22 carries against the Arizona Cardinals, a sum that stands as his career high.

It came during a Week 10 contest where the television broadcast detailed the first-round running back's usage, or lack thereof, over and over again through graphics and steady discussion. While the No. 8 overall pick's involvement has been a hot topic all year – fantasy football owners need their points, man – it hit a crescendo the week prior, after the Falcons slipped below .500 due in part to scoring opportunities missed where Robinson wasn't used much.

If we take away the Tampa Bay game as an outlier – when Robinson was active but barely played due to illness – Robinson had averaged 12.75 carries, with 5.03 yards per carry, over eight games prior to the Cardinals loss. If you include all games played, Robinson ranks third in the NFL at 4.9 yards per carry and third with 20 carries of 10-plus yards. Those latter stats illustrate his explosiveness. He also gets stuffed (for no gain or just a yard) 12.8% of the time, per NextGen Stats, the NFL's second lowest total.

That led many to wonder whether an increased workload with such efficiency would've helped the Falcons win a few more games.

Smith took the brunt of such criticism from the media and fans due to his role as head coach and offensive play caller. He got none from Robinson himself. The rookie actually came to Smith's defense after the Cardinals game.

"He's making me feel comfortable in the game," Robinson said in the postgame locker room. "He doesn't want to just throw me out there just to get a lot of touches or whatever. He wants to do it the right way. He knows I'm a rookie. He wants to gradually get me going.

"…It's important. I know people give him grief and stuff, but I feel like, when we talk, it's important to get a rookie in the right way and not just throw him out there and get him banged up early. It was good to see what he was doing. But, in the second half of the season, we've got to do whatever we can to get wins on the board from week to week."

That just might be the case moving forward. The Falcons have to stack wins, starting with Sunday's pivotal home game versus New Orleans, to realize their goal and win the NFC South.

Smith talked a lot about his young running back in his Wednesday press conference, praising how Robinson has navigated the season and stating that he'll be a significant contributor as the Falcons carry on.

"To me, he has exceeded our expectations," Smith said. "A lot of times, it's the little things that you guys don't see -- I think he's mature beyond his years. Like all of us, (he) would love to be undefeated. (He) would love to score 500 touchdowns, but he's a guy that continues to work. He understands, too. That's why it's important to have the right veterans around him, so when you go through ups and downs, as anybody does, he fought through them.

"I think what you saw (versus Arizona) was kind of what you saw earlier in the year, too. However it divvies out, he's going to have a huge role in our game plan."

To this point, Robinson and Tyler Allgeier have had an equal number of carries, exactly 125 each. Robinson has done more with his, but the pair has been positively impactful in a run game that's steady even when facing loaded boxes. Robinson has fared well in those situations and overall, churning out 96 yards over expectation, per NFL NextGen Stats. He also ranks 12th with 612 rushing yards despite having fewer carries than everyone ranked above him.

Proper usage is important to Smith in the short- and long-term. Finding a balance between overload and under-use can be delicate, though the Falcons can afford a conservative approach, considering both Allgeier and Cordarrelle Patterson can effectively carry the football.

Robinson was drafted sky high for a reason, and Smith says he has been impressed by how he has handled the highs and lows of the longest year of his athletic life. Robinson has essentially been on since the start of last season at Texas, with the pre-NFL-draft process starting right after that. Then he gets taken at No. 8 and rolled right into the offseason and, after a brief summer break, into training camp and the regular season.

Smith says Robinson has dealt with all that well.

"He's a huge part of the game plan," Smith said. "To me, it's what he can handle. And you try not to do too much to overload one player, but he's very unique, in that regard, for a young player."

Robinson believes the professional schedule is actually easier on the mind and body, with more time for treatment, body maintenance and mental breaks away from the game. He's also learning the system and his role in it. He's confident and ready to take on however significant a role Smith gives him.

"(The game is) slowing down for me and I'm starting to get more comfortable in how I play the game at this level," Robinson said. "I'm always just to trying to keep growing and getting better. But I take it one day at a time and let the gifts that I've been given -- showing that on field but getting better every single day and not get comfortable or complacent in my abilities. So, you know, I'm trying to it one step at a time and then go out there on Sunday and let it all loose."