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FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Rookie quarterback Desmond Ridder has impressed himself — and coach Arthur Smith — with his ability to quickly absorb the Atlanta Falcons' playbook. Ridder is still considered the challenger to veteran Marcus Mariota in the Falcons' quarterback competition. Ridder, the third-round draft pick from Cincinnati, could gain ground quickly. Smith handed Ridder praise when he said "He's light years ahead of most other young quarterbacks from the neck up." Mariota is expected to open the season as the starter. The Falcons signed Mariota on the same day they traded Matt Ryan to Indianapolis. Mariota has served as a mentor for Ridder.
