Houston Texans: Week 6 QB radar update

No. 2: Desmond Ridder

There is a lot to like when it comes to the prospect of Desmond Ridder of the University of Cincinnati, whether it be his physical gifts to the obvious knowledge of the game that Ridder poses. The arm talent with Ridder is unquestioned whether it be letting loose downfield or putting some air on passes while dropping them in buckets.

As the weeks go on, the decision-making and poise of Ridder continue to improve as he continues to impress, which has to be drawing interest from Texans scouts.

Ridder led his team to a no-doubt win over Temple when some wondered if there would be a letdown after beating Notre Dame the week before. Cincinnati was once again the best team on the field on Thursday night and that confidence and poise come directly from their quarterback.

Ridder finished with a stat line of 22-of-30 while throwing for 259 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions. Those numbers don’t jump off the page but it’s the level of consistency week-to-week that does. Ridder continues to impress while putting up almost identical stat lines every week. Consistency is a major factor in scouts’ opinions on players, especially quarterbacks.

Performances like this while continuing to keep the Bearcats undefeated will push Ridder more and more into the national spotlight. Look for Ridder to move up mock draft boards following this performance as he solidifies himself as a top college quarterback.

If the right team takes Ridder with the ability to groom him in their system there is no doubt he can become a solid NFL starting quarterback.

Pro comparison: Justin Herbert is the player that comes to mind similar play style and physical build. Collin Kaepernick makes the most sense strongarm and ability to run. Like Kaepernick, Ridder struggles with accuracy and overthrowing his receivers.