Atlanta Falcons Need to 'Jump Start' QB Play

The Atlanta Falcons have their running back, but without solid play from the field general, it all comes out in the wash.

Despite a lackluster offensive showing in London on Sunday, the Atlanta Falcons once again confirmed that they have a blossoming star at running back in Bijan Robinson.

Although he did not account for a score across the pond, Robinson broke the century mark on the ground for the second time this season, continuing to make a strong impact during his rookie season. Robinson put up 105 yards on 14 carries in Sunday's loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, good for an average of 7.5 yards per carry.

If there's a bright spot on offense currently in Atlanta, he's it.

The Falcons have struggled up front, and quarterback Desmond Ridder has found more critics than fans in recent weeks thanks to some poor performances, but Robinson has continued to shine for the Birds. Head coach Arthur Smith referenced a need to "jump start" the offense in his postgame presser on Sunday, noting Ridder's adversity with two interceptions on the day.

Oct 1, 2023; London, United Kingdom; Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (7) carries the ball against Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Darious Williams (31) in the second half during an NFL International Series game at Wembley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

"Those are tough lessons for a young quarterback," Smith said, "but you're going to find out about yourself when you go back out there. In the second half, he was able to push the ball down the field a little bit. I thought he operated cleaner in the pocket. Reality is, we've got to find a way to jump start early. We've got the right guys in that locker room, but that is the reality."

Right now, the Falcons offense is Bijan Robinson, however. In a league that puts so much emphasis on solid quarterback play, that's a lonely place to be for a running back. Robinson can provide a spark and be the proverbial bell cow for Atlanta, but without solid quarterback play, he is on an island by himself in offensive production.

If the Falcons (and Robinson) want to reach their potential in 2023, the quarterback question needs an immediate answer.